On Veterans Day, November 11th, 2013, a delegation of sheet metal worker veterans from the Vietnam, Gulf, and Afghan wars had a message for a San Francisco developer. They demanded that BRE Properties CEO Connie Moore should provide Middle Class job opportunities and employ apprentices from approved State of California Apprenticeship Programs. BRE Properties has refused to reach an agreement with Sheet Metal Workers’ Local 104 that would ensure our veterans got the opportunity they deserve. (Click here to play video). Once the delegation arrived to the elevator, they were notified that they would not be allowed access to Connie Moore and she had expressed a strong desire NOT to meet with the veterans. The veteran delegation returned to their supporters outside. Two veterans, both of whom are sheet metal workers, William Leighton and Jason Hutton, held their ground when the police would no longer allow the protest outside of the building. Both were arrested for trespassing.
SMART prides itself about its policy giving a select number of veterans the opportunity at direct entry into our Trade. Two years ago at the first Campaign for Jobs Conference, one of the main goals adopted by the over 250 rank and file Campaign for Jobs leaders present was to create a direct entry program for veterans to give them the opportunity to return from war with their head held high.
SMART will continue to stand by our veterans. Contact BRE CEO Connie Moore and demand she respect our returning veterans.
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