Unemployed workers demand their rights

May 7 — Baltimore activists held a news conference to announce a campaign to win justice for unemployed workers who have not received their benefits.  

Several workers discussed their hardships and interactions with the Maryland Department of Labor’s Division of Unemployment Insurance. A union representative spoke for the workers inside the department.  

Thousands have yet to receive their benefits due under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and face evictions, foreclosures, car repossessions and more.

The group announced an unemployed workers’ speak-out and picket line. The event will be held on Saturday, May 22, 2 p.m. at 1100 N. Eutaw St., Baltimore.  Unemployed workers, friends, family and supporters are encouraged to come out and participate.

The state government is violating the CARES Act. Our benefits belong to us! Bills are due now — it’s life and death for us!  We say: Service now — no more games, pay up! Unemployment benefits are a right!

Presenters included:

Steven Ceci, unemployed hospitality worker

Rasika Ruwanpathirana, unemployed warehouse worker

Joyce Butler, community organizer, Peoples Power Assembly

A union representative spoke for workers inside the Maryland Department of Labor’s Division of Unemployment Insurance

Sharon Black of the PPA chaired the news conference