Chevron to Face Actions From Workers As the Call for Chevron to Support Workers Fighting for Health Insurance Intensifies

HOUSTON, Oct. 17 /PRNewswire/ — On Thursday, Oct. 19, workers plan on taking the question: “With $14.1 billion in profits, shouldn’t Chevron be a leader in the fight for health insurance for working families?” to Chevron stations in dozens of communities across the nation.

Ercilia Sandoval, a leader and spokesperson not only for Houston families that lack health insurance but for a nation struggling under the burden of 43 million uninsured, will be featured at the actions. Sandoval was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year.

Participants will use human billboards, banners, and leaflets to reach out to the public about the need for America’s wealthiest companies to play an active role in creating a base of good, quality jobs that provide health care. For years, wealthy companies such as Chevron have stayed on the sidelines while our nation has struggled to provide health care to millions who lack health insurance, and provide decent housing and a future for families who work hard but earn too little to live.

They will also be raising funds to help nearly 5,000 janitors on the verge of striking in Houston.

The janitors, who clean the office buildings of some of the nation’s wealthiest corporations earn wages as low as $20 per day and receive no health care or other benefits. In other cities, janitors who work in the offices of major national landlords such as Chevron, earn more than $10 an hour, work full time, and have health insurance. Last year the janitors formed a union with SEIU.

As the fourth largest company in the United States, Chevron plays a special role as a market leader in Houston. Additionally, many of the janitors who are preparing to strike clean Chevron-owned buildings. Chevron not only could but should make it very clear to the contractors they hire to keep their buildings clean that they believe health care is a must for Houston’s working families.

Service Employees International Union

CONTACT: Renee Asher of Service Employees International Union,+1-202-255-4251

Web site: http://www.seiu.org/