Houston, TX – Over 20 activists protested outside of Wal-Mart in Memorial Heights, Nov. 27, to stand with low-wage workers in their struggle to for a $15 wage, health benefits and a pension. Wal-Mart is one of the most exploitative companies in the U.S. It pays its workers almost nothing, provides them with few benefits and makes them work under the constant threat of being fired. The protest was organized by the National Organization for Women (NOW), which organizes the demonstration each year on Black Friday.

The activists, who protested at the entrance, chanted, “He, he, ho, ho, low wages have got to go,” and “Who's got the power, we've got the power, what kind of power, workers power!” A student with SDS had a beautiful sign that read, “Money for jobs, not for war,” and enthusiastically led the chants. At the rally, some discussed the limitations of the Fight for 15 Campaign and discussed the necessity for workers to form a union. When the SDS student at the rally started the chant, “What do we want? Union! When do we want it? Now!” many people joined in great excitement.

Chloe O'Connor, with Students for a Democratic Society, said, “It is great to see activists and workers standing up for higher wages across the country. However, I think it is very important for workers to form a union at Wal-Mart and win a contract. Without a union, workers may win a few reforms, but they can only ensure their victories if they struggle to form a union.”

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