NMASS | National Mobilization Against SweatShops
 

National Mobilization Against SweatShops
PO Box 130293
New York, NY 10013-0995
(P) 718-625-9091 (fax) 718-625-8950

April 20, 2003


Dear Friend:


On May 6th a group of working people injured on the job or hurt by 9/11 toxic air will begin a seven-day hunger strike in front of Governor Pataki's office in New York City. They have asked for our support. Friends, family and other members of NMASS have raised concerns about their taking such extreme measures. However, these women and men are determined to proceed. They feel they've been pushed to the edge--their health is under severe attack, they have made innumerable efforts to bring their concerns to Pataki's attention, and they have waited too long. Their hunger strike is a brave act of resistance at a time when the government is starving us - denying our basic needs and rights to live healthy lives - to fund the war abroad. NMASS feels we must support them. We call on all individuals and organizations to support the hunger strikers.

Since 9/11, the health crisis facing working people has become more nightmarish. We have endured massive layoffs and loss of health coverage. We face a deadly health risk brought on by the 9/11 toxic air and the government's cover-up of it. We are working more intensely for longer hours. More are getting hurt on the job, joining the tens of thousands already waiting for years at the NY State Workers' Compensation Board for benefits and medical treatment they desperately need.

NMASS has brought together workers injured on the job, hurt by the 9/11 toxic air, robbed of health coverage or working longer hours. We have repeatedly asked to meet with Pataki. We gathered thousands of petitions. We testified in the U.S. Senate, filed an international lawsuit against Pataki in Mexico City, and mobilized thousands to march in New York City, Albany, and even Washington, D.C. Not only has Pataki ignored us, he is slashing some of the only health care programs available to low-income working people, such as Medicaid, SSI and Family Health Plus.

Please join us in supporting the hunger strikers.

  • Call us with ideas about how to support the hunger strikers.
  • Distribute, post and e-mail material about the hunger strike (see www.nmass.org).
  • Bring family, friends and organizations to picket, rally, or stand in vigil with the hunger strikers, May 6-13 in front of Governor Pataki's office in NYC (633 3rd Ave. between 40-41 St.)
  • Hold a teach-in about the hunger strike. Materials are available.
  • Donate or fundraise for the It's About TIME! Campaign for Workers' Health & Safety.
  • Help reach out to churches, schools, organizations, and the media.
  • Call, fax or email Pataki (212-681-4580, fax: 212-681-4643, email: gov.pataki@chamber.state.ny.us) to demand the he immediately address the health concerns of working people.

We look forward to your participation.

Lea Geronimo , Chair
Board of Directors, National Mobilization Against Sweatshops