NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ—Rain or shine, New Brunswick workers and their families will rally to save their safeguards, and march through the streets of the Hub City.
On Sunday, April 23, New Brunswick workers will have the opportunity to rally for safer workplace conditions and march for fallen workers during the annual Workers’ Memorial Day event.
New Labor, the city’s leading organization for immigrant workers, and the New Jersey Work Environment Council are coming together to raise awareness and prevent further workplace-related illnesses, injuries, and deaths.
Starting 1 p.m. at the Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple, located at 222 Livingston Avenue, the rally and march will consist of testimonials from families and friends of lost loved ones in the workplace and discussion on how to fight for safe jobs.
Worker health and safety has always been a pressing issue in New Brunswick, but increasingly workers fear that the federal government will not protect them from dangerous workplace conditions.
President Donald Trump’s proposed budget, which includes a 20% funding reduction for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Department of Labor (DOL), would mean even less workplace hazard inspections, investigations of wage theft, and less training programs.
Although one company, GK Brothers Construction, LLC, had already been cited twice for safety violations in the last five years, just last November, one of their workers — New Brunswick resident Michael Montero — was in a fatal accident at a banquet hall in Morris County, when he was struck by a forklift.
Hence, New Brunswick worker groups continue to encourage more action, labeling the issue of worker safety as critical for change.
In order to help the cause anyone can join the march, or fight by donating to New Labor at their website.
