Vote offers side benefits
Cambridge Times
Dec 13, 2007

As employees at Toyota grapple with the idea of unionizing the local automobile plant, they must realize they are on the verge of making history as well as striking a blow for the rights of Cambridge workers.

The unionization here of the world's largest automaker would have tremendous spin-off benefits for the entire Cambridge economy and the surrounding area as collective bargaining can ultimately lead to agreements for more local re-investment as well as better pay packets and benefits.

That means more money staying right here in Cambridge, rather than going back to Tokyo.

It will require courageous action by Toyota workers as they face a difficult decision while withstanding the formidable pressure of an obscenely well-funded anti-union machine.

This courage can benefit generations of workers for years to come. And, the Toyota workers would be nothing short of heroes if they choose to organize a union. When in doubt, courage is always a better choice than fear.

Why not tell a Toyota worker today that your thoughts are with them. And Tommy Douglas, the father of Canada's universal health care system, said it best when he advised us all: "Courage my friends - it's never too late to change the world."

Max Lombardi

Cambridge