Workers picket to raise awareness of AT&T pact

BOARDMAN — Members of the Communications Workers of America Local 4320 hosted an informational picket today in front of an AT&T call center on South Avenue.

A union representative said the aim of the picket was to raise awareness about ongoing contract negotiations between the union and AT&T, and to speak out against outsourcing of jobs.

"We're trying to protect our hometown jobs so they'll keep the call center in Youngstown," said Local 4320 Vice President Glen Skeen.

An AT&T corporate spokesman responded, noting that employees are working under an extended contract.

"The contract covers good-paying U.S. jobs averaging nearly $70,000 a year in pay and benefits, with some averaging over $115,000. We're not proposing to cut anyone's pay, or take away their benefits. We're continuing to negotiate with the union, and we're confident a fair agreement can be reached," said Marty Richter.