What is happening in the last few days in Prato is something never seen before: for the first time, the workers of some Chinese-run textile companies have decided to rebel against exploitation, starting an all-out strike. A courageous gesture in a district that, for years, has been synonymous with silent workplace oppression.
The workers, forced to work exhausting shifts, they finally said enough. What exactly happened? Workers from four Chinese-run companies folded their arms, setting up a gazebo and tents in front of the factories. The reason behind this protest is the inhumane 12-hour work shifts, 7 days a week, without holidays, sickness, or any type of protection.
An inhuman situation which, unfortunately, does not only concern the 4 companies where the strike is taking place but thousands of other workers in the fashion sector in Prato.
Sunday 6 Octoberwhile so many of us were relaxing and enjoying a day off, these workers were at the factory, like any other day of the week. It was not by chance that this date was chosen for the start of the strike. As Luca Toscano, territorial coordinator of the Sudd Cobas union, declared:
That the strike began on Sunday is indicative: it is a day when businesses should be closed. While they never are.
The companies involved, Lin Weidong Packaging, Zhong Zipper, 3Desy and Ironing Tang, they are no strangers to labor exploitation. Some workers, mostly Pakistani, after years of illegal work have been forced to sign part-time contracts that do not reflect the actual hours worked. And this happens in one of the most prosperous textile areas in Europe, before everyone’s eyes.
The strike, dubbed “8×5 Strike Day”, aims to achieve decent working conditions: eight hours a day, five days a week, as required by the national contract. Nothing more, in short, than the normal rights that everyone should have.
And it seems that the first results of the strike have already begun to be seen. As stated on the Facebook page of Sudd cobas Prato Firenze:
The 8×5 strike day defeats Stireria Tang. First victory for widespread mobilization in the district, after 24 hours of strike and picket. Obtained permanent 8×5 contracts for everyone.
And 3Desy, after 36 hours of total blockade, also opened negotiations for the regularization of contracts.
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