Pro-labor rally marks anniversary of collective bargaining bill
By: by Heather Sawaski
Updated: March 23, 2012
APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) - Pro-labor groups held candlelight vigils across the state Friday, March 9, 2012, to mark the one year anniversary of legislation passed that limits collective bargaining rights for many state workers. They also renewed their protest that sparked a recall of Governor Scott Walker.
Those at a vigil in Appleton said they're remembering rights lost.
"You might call it a period of mourning," retired teacher Judy Winzenz explained. "because, obviously, the rights of many workers have been taken away."
A group of about 30 people gathered at Houdini Plaza in Appleton, Wisconsin to draw attention to the issue, and let lawmakers know they're not giving up.
Those in attendance said the event also serves as a motivator for the potential recall election of Governor Walker.
"To show that we're still there and we're still going to push and hopefully we'll get the recall and we'll win the recall," said Dave Mielke, a state worker.
Mielke said the loss of collective bargaining crippled his union.
"It's turned a lot of people into enemies," he said. "Families, friends, co-workers, and it's just torn the state apart and I find that upsetting."
"I just hope people think seriously about the impact of what has happened," added Winzenz. "Why people are so concerned that it's not just union people, it's all workers, I believe."
Madison's Reclaim Wisconsin rally started Saturday, March 10th at the capitol at 1:00 pm.
