That’s why they decided to make special earrings and necklaces to wear at their recent information picket outside local grocery stores in Melville, Saskatchewan.
Sporting casual wear and picket signs, the women added a special touch to their ensemble by wearing peanut earrings and necklaces.
The assessories underscored their message that their labour is worth more than peanuts. The women, members of Local 3481, provide residential care, training and support to people with mental and physical challenges.
They are paid between $7 to $9 an hour. Over the summer, the 30 members voted 100% in support of striking if necessary to secure a significant wage increase.
A recent wage study of group homes and other community-based agencies in Saskatchewan found employees earn about $10 less an hour than provincial government employees doing work of equal value.
Messages of support to Local 3481 members can be sent to: akagis@cupe.ca