State's Largest Grocery Workers Union Endorses Victor Pichardo in Election for Vacant Bronx Assembly Seat

QUEENS VILLAGE, NY (06/18/2013)(readMedia)-- New York – United Food and Commercial Workers Union (UFCW) Local 1500, New York State's largest grocery workers union, today announced its endorsement of Victor Pichardo in the special election being held to fill the vacant 86th Assembly seat from the Bronx.

"Albany needs young, dedicated individuals committed to open and transparent governing if it is going to ask for public's trust. Victor Pichardo is just that type of individual Albany and most importantly the constituents of the 86th Assembly District, are seeking to bring integrity and honesty to this Assembly seat," said Patrick Purcell, Assistant to the President of UFCW Local 1500.

"The members of Local 1500 know and trust that Victor Pichardo will show a commitment to advocating for economic and social justice," Purcell continued. "Whether it is supporting the organizing efforts of low-wage workers, holding companies like Walmart responsible for their predatory practices or simply advocating for State policies that prioritize the working class, our members are confident Victor Pichardo will stand side by side with them. UFCW Local 1500 is dedicated to seeing him elected, " Purcell concluded.

UFCW Local 1500 represents 23,000 members and promotes progressive policies such as demanding Wal-Mart be held accountable for it's 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 and demanding labor standards e attached to corporate subsidies. UFCW Local 1500 also 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 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.