Right now, workers at five Touchstone Climbing gyms across Southern California are on strike due to unfair labor practices. Can you chip in to their strike fund today to keep their picket line strong?
Touchstone Climbing workers unionized at five SoCal locations last year after their employer failed to disclose a shooting threat. After the threat came to light, workers walked out, shutting down the gyms, and successfully fought to have the potential shooter banned in order to protect both staff and gym members.
And then they formed a union.
But after seven months of negotiating for a fair first contract, unionized Touchstone workers are still fighting for improved safety for both staff and customers, and the pay and benefits they deserve.
Right now, routesetters at all five unionized locations are striking–the first strike of its kind in the nation’s history. Routesetters hold a critical role in climbing gyms: they build climbing walls, working with power tools while suspended by ropes at heights up to forty feet. But since Touchstone Climbing workers unionized, the company has increased routesetters’ workloads, resulting in more staff injuries.
All workers deserve safe working conditions. In the case of Touchstone workers, their safety is inherently connected to the safety of their gym community.
Touchstone Workers United began when workers stood together to protect each other and their community from a serious threat. These workers continue to fight for each other and the safety of every gym member.
In solidarity,
The Labor Force