5 March, 2007
Dear Colleagues,
International Women’s Day is marked on 8 March every year and is a day of global celebration for women’s economic, political and social achievements. Among other relevant historic events, it commemorates the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in New York City in 1911 where 140 women lost their lives.
On International Women’s Day this year, some 84 workers in Turkey are making a stand. Eighty-two of them are women. They have been on strike against Fresenius Medical Care in the Antalya Free Trade Zone since 26 September 2006. They are fighting for basic dignity and justice on and off the job.
On 8 March 2007, the ICEM is asking all to stand with them by sending a letter of support to them through their trade union, ICEM affiliate Petrol-Iş, the Petroleum, Chemical and Rubber Workers’ Union.
A short fact sheet on this dispute is provided here, as well as a model letter that can be used.
The ICEM will stand with our Turkish sisters and brothers on 8 March, and we will stand with them every day thereafter until they win their rights. Please let these courageous workers and Petrol-Iş know, on International Women’s Day, this Thursday 8 March, that you are also standing with them.
Thank you for taking part in this most important action.
Fraternally,
Manfred Warda
General Secretary