Red Cross workers seek fair contract

The workers, represented by AFSCME Local 3931, marched on the Red Cross Saturday to call for a fair settlement. These highly skilled workers safely process donated blood and blood products for 111 hospitals in Minnesota, western Wisconsin and eastern South Dakota. If forced to strike, safe blood could be in short supply, the union said.

Local 3931 is asking supporters to call the Red Cross to avert an unfair labor practices strike and a shortage of blood. "Tell the Red Cross to keep safe blood available by bargaining in good faith and settling a fair contract with lab workers who save lives," the union said.

Supporters are urged to call Dr. Mair, Interim CEO, at 651-290-8664, and Lisa Rohr, Human Resources, at 651-291-3396.

"Saving lives is our top priority and we want to settle this contract, but we can\’t do that until the Red Cross provides us with the information we need to negotiate wages and benefits," explained union negotiator Nola Lynch.