NY State's Largest Grocery Workers Union Endorses Jessica Ramos for District Leader in Jackson Heights

Cites "labor background and strong working class values" as basis for decision

WESTBURY, NY (06/11/2014)(readMedia)-- United Food and Commercial Workers Union (UFCW) Local 1500, New York State's largest grocery workers union today announced its endorsement to re-elect Jessica Ramos as District Leader for the 39th Assembly District, Part A.

"As a District Leader, Jessica has been a strong advocate for our members and all working people," said UFCW Local 1500 President Bruce W. Both. "We are looking forward to working closely with Jessica to ensure that a true fighter for the working class remains in office."

"Jessica Ramos is not only a friend of labor, she comes from labor herself," said Anthony Speelman, Secretary-Treasurer. "From organizing within the community and advocating for union members across New York State, we are excited to stand side by side with Jessica to ensure she is re-elected District Leader." Speelman concluded.

UFCW 1500 represents 23,000 members and promotes progressive policies such as demanding Wal-Mart be held accountable for its unethical business practices, supporting the expansion of supermarkets into underserved communities and creating good food, good jobs and good health for all New Yorkers. Other Issues of importance to Local 1500 members include aggressive wage theft prosecution, demanding labor standards be attached to corporate subsidies and strengthening New York City land use laws.

UFCW Local 1500 has an active "Women's Network Program," which addresses issues particular to women such as domestic violence and breast cancer. Over half of UFCW Local 1500's members are women.

United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 1500, based out of Westbury, NY represents grocery workers in New York City, Long Island, Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess Counties. Members of Local 1500 are employed by Pathmark, King Kullen, Stop and Shop, Gristedes, Fairway, D'agastinos, Key Food and Shop Rite. Learn more at www.ufcw1500.org and twitter.com/ufcw1500, facebook.com/ufcw1500.

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