Over
300 people gathered outside the Spokane Boeing plant on a chilling
winter day to deliver a clear message: Keep this plant open and
a part of The Boeing Company. Boeing employees, IAM officials,
SPEEA officials, Boeing employees and managers, Representative
George Nethercutt, the Mayor of Spokane, civic leaders, workers
from other Unions and even other area businesses joined together
in a show of solidarity to preserve the 500 jobs at this plant.
Leaders hoped the event would get Boeing's attention and influence
their decision on the fate of this plant that boasts unparalleled
productivity. The rally was just the latest action to convince Boeing to do the right thing and keep this profitable plant a viable part of the Spokane economy.
Second shift Union Steward Steve Warren has been a catalyst in the effort. He noted, "The rally provided a way to increase public awareness on this issue and show Boeing the tremendous community support for this facility. I was proud so many second shift members attended and brought their families. Seeing members from other Unions (steelworkers, teamsters, etc.) gives us a boost."
Congressman Nethercutt didn't mince words in his message to Boeing, "I would have no reason to support Boeing, even on appropriations, if they were to abandon this plant." His message drew shouts of support from the crowd that appreciated their Congressman taking the aerospace giant to task.
District Secretary-Treasurer Bruce Spalding declared, "It's time we hold Boeing accountable for their business decisions. It's time Boeing learned dedication and loyalty are a two-way street. Boeing claims employees are their greatest asset -- yet their actions send a very different message."
Administrative Assistant Ron McGaha proposed the idea of closing the plant was driven by greed. He outlined a list of accomplishments and advantages at the factory, including a 37 percent reduction in cost since 1992 and the workers' embrace of an efficient manufacturing model which significantly increased productivity. McGaha emphasized, "The reward for that effort should be job security, but instead they are considering closing the plant."
Boeing will announce their decision on whether to keep, sell or close the Spokane plant sometime in February.
