IATSE Local 15 Holding Rally in Show of Support for Live-Event Rigging Technicians

SEATTLE, May 19, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Rhino NW, a company that provides technical staffing for events, including riggers, is accused of unfair labor practices by the National Labor Relations Review Board for unlawfully retaliating against employees who serve as leaders in the union organizing drive to negotiate a contract.

What: Local 15 of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) the union that represents riggers in contract negotiations are holding a rally in front of Safeco Field in a show of support for getting a fair contract for the rigging technicians working inside setting up the Billy Joel concert.

Who: Some 200 – 300 people are expected to attend the rally, including backstage event technicians, the workers' friends and associates, supportive community members, and local labor leaders. The labor choir and busker band will entertain.

When: Friday, May 20, 2016 and 1:00 p.m.

Where: Outside entrance to Safeco Field, southwest corner at First Avenue South and Edgar Martinez Drive South, 1250 First Avenue South Seattle, Washington 98134.

Why: The employees have been attempting to collectively bargain for more than a year. At this time they have little job security, no sick leave or health insurance, lack family-friendly scheduling, and work at hourly rates well below industry standards. They need and deserve a contract. Rhino NW has been dragging its feet by filing appeals for over a year in the hope of discouraging its employees and putting a chill on their efforts. A hearing issued by the NLRB Region 19 on the matter is set for July 26, 2016.

SOURCE IATSE Local 15

Related Links

http://www.ia15.org/