STITCH has developed a model of training via “training exchanges” – workshops or gatherings where bring union women together, from the U.S. and Central America, or from different parts of Central America, to share models for union-building and learn from each other.

We believe this can be effective because:

• Despite the many differences in our situations, the challenges of building a strong organization are very similar in most countries, and the basic elements are the same;
• More and more, US and Central American unions are facing the same employers and often the same sophisticated anti-union strategies because of the globalization of the economy; and
• As women, in particular, we confront many of the same challenges of meeting our work and family responsibilities, trying to maintain our confidence and build our leadership skills, and at times, dealing with a lack of support from the men around us. There is great value for both the women in the United States and the women from Central America in facing these challenges together and learning from each other in the process.

See photos.

Updates on Central American Allies and Training

In the past, STITCH updated you on the struggle by a group of men and women to organize in the Nobland Maquila factory in Guatemala . These workers were attempting to become only the third unionized maquila factory in the country. There were many odds against these brave organizer and we were all very excited in early 2004 when their union was recognized by the management and they began to negotiate a contract.

BUT, in reality it was no victory. Over the past year, the union has faced the factory management’s continued intimidation tactics and their stalling at the bargain table. At the end of 2004, there is still no contract!

In the beginning of October, working with a local labor federation, FESTRAS, STITCH held a training for the Nobland women to improve their organizing skills. The harassment of these workers even reached into the training, with the company sending people to try to enter the meeting and taking pictures through the windows of those that attended, however these women would not be bullied and stayed for a full days meeting.

In mid-October, STITCH held a training exchange between the women of the Honduran textile union, SITRACOR, and Nobland. (For more information on SITRACOR, click here) The women labor leaders of SITRACOR brought their experience, support and inspiration to the women of Nobland. The Honduran union, SITRACOR, has worked with STITCH since 2002 when their organizers participated in a series of trainings that included the best practices of another established Honduran textile union. SITRACOR has successfully battled the union-busting techniques that now face the workers at Nobland. The SITRACOR women, with the support of STITCH trainings and exchanges with other experienced textile unions, recently negotiated increased wages, strong safety measures and extended paid maternity leave in their new two year contract. Now it is SITRACOR’s turn to share its knowledge and lessons learned.

The union organizers at Nobland are continuing their struggle. Hopefully, the work of STITCH and other international, national, and local unions will assist them as they continue to fight for a fair contract. The union has filed complaints with the Guatemalan labor ministry and will fight for a seat at the negotiating table.

At this time, we are waiting for the word from the Union to initiate a campaign to support these workers. Check back for more information and ideas about how you can help.