Striking Verizon Workers Plan Boston Rally

Boston, MA - Local Verizon union organizers expect 1,000 will take part in a rally on Copley Square Thursday, as the strike against the company continues across New England.

IBEW Local 2222's Suzanne Ward told Patch the union anticipates at least 1,000 will rally in Boston, part of an ongoing strike against employer Verizon over job security and pay disputes.

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"Despite our best efforts over the last ten months, Verizon refuses to listen. Come join your union brothers and sisters and tell Verizon to negotiate, don’t dictate," the union's e-activist newsletter implores.

The rally is planned for 5 p.m. outside the Boston Public Library on Copley Square Thursday, followed by a march up Boylston Street to the Verizon Destination Store there.

Nearly 40,000 Verizon workers walked off their jobs and onto picket lines April 13. It is considered the largest work stoppage of any U.S. industry in years, as organizers say they're pushing for better pay and more job security. 

Verizon has brought in non-union replacement workers to bridge the gap, and has released statements contesting the unions' claims.

>> Photo from Bowdoin Square picket line via IBEW Local 2222