TL;DR: Show solidarity with underpaid, hard-working Massachusetts sanitation workers as they strike for better rights by using the letter template at the bottom of this post.

Context: Over 400 Massachusetts workers are on strike demanding equal pay compared with other employers in the area. Sanitation work is a dangerous, often thankless job which serves millions of city residents, keeping streets clean and safe. The CEO of Republic Services, who sold company stock for over a million dollars last year, has reportedly refused to even negotiate with the striking workers—perhaps hoping public perception will weigh against them as time (and garbage) accumulates.

Opinion: Simply put, fair wages should not be withheld by wealthy CEOs of companies that employ for some of the hardest, dirtiest, most dangerous jobs. Someone who has a million dollars in company stock to move around can, at a minimum, show up to the negotiating table. The intent of this template is to show support for the workers and persuade the company to take appropriate action.

Template: Dear Republic Services team,

It is clear that the workers on strike deserve to be heard and treated with respect. Their demand for fair wages and better working conditions is not just reasonable—it is essential. A fair wage is a reflection of the skill, effort, and potential dangers involved in their work. These workers are not only providing a vital service; they are ensuring the well-being of the public.

Republic Services has a unique opportunity here to address the concerns of its workers, resolve this situation, and emerge with public support. I sincerely hope that Republic Services will engage with the striking workers in good faith and find a resolution that acknowledges their hard work.

Sincerely,

[Your name]

Republic Services “customer experience” email

Other links:

https://x.com/RepublicService

https://www.facebook.com/RepublicServices