I'm having a hard day. I just crossed a picket line.

[Evoman]

The custodians, secretaries, service-people, and maintenance workers have gone on strike at the University at which I work. I'm technically still a student, wrapping up some grad work (I'm graduated, but my prof "hired" me on to work until I find better work...until the end of November).

Here is the thing. I'm a union guy. I've never crossed a picket line in my life, ever. Today, I finally did. My reasons..I really want to finish some work for my prof in the little time I have left. He is a great guy, and a lefty, but I think he would be disappointed if I didn't come in. But at the same time, my mom (who is a janitor here) also is on the picket line. She says she is completely fine with me coming in, and understands but still.....

So here I am. Looking for a way to assauge my guilt. What can I do? I was thinking that after work (I'm leaving early), I would buy some coffee and donuts to bring to the strikers. I want to, or need to, do something. Any ideas? At least tell me I'm not a fucking shitbag.

[NightWatcher]

1. stand with them after you are done, and I think you would be absolved

[Swede]

2. I think you're handling this dilemma pretty well.

nt

[Evoman]

3. Thanks, I appreciate that.

[JohnnyBoots]

4. Bring them a couple of pizza's. Picketing is hungry work.

[Inchworm]

5. You aren't a shitbag

You are just a victim of circumstance. Support them later if it would help you feel better. The donuts and coffee should do the trick.

:hi:

[Critters2]

6. The coffee and donuts idea is great!

That's exactly what you should do. Shows your support, helps you feel better.

You're a good guy, caught in a bad spot. Donuts are a great remedy!

[Evoman]

7. Man, you guys are great, making me feel better.

I'm leaving right now.

[davsand]

8. Go back out there and pick up a sign.

Your other alternative if you have to go back again (while the line is still up) is to wear a black armband in support.

Are they SEIU or AFSCME? Some other international?

Solidarity means a lot, and you are doing the best you can, Brother!



Laura

[Evoman]

9. CUPE

And although I'm not in the union, I grabbed them some coffee and donuts. They were very happy for it too. I'm going back out there in about an hour to join the picketers.

[davsand]

10. Everything that people can do means a lot when you are on that line.

I am certain that your show of support made a huge impact, and thank you for taking time to do it!

One time one of the locals at the local university had put up a line. There was one kid that had to cross and he stopped on the way in to explain that he HAD to go in to drop off a paper, but that he'd be back out in just a few minutes. When he came back out he got on his cell phone (while on the line with a sign in hand) and called his own local and got about ten more people down there to walk the line in support. HE was a hero in spite of crossing that line. They still talk about that kid!

In solidarity!



Laura