Protest

In the beginning there were only a few people camped out on the sidewalk. The day was icy cold and clear and thermos flasks of hot coffee met with bundled clothing. The factory continued to belch out smoke billowing in the cold air. Jobs were scarce with new automation. Layoffs had been harsh on the local community.

By Thursday there were twenty or so people and some had brought home made placards. Cars driving by honked with support. Union negotiations had failed again in the face of an acrimonious management.

The air quality near the factory was terrible and some locals had joined the protest for that reason. Nevertheless spirits were high as more workers decided to join the standoff. Despite the serious issue, people were laughing and joking, and some people had even turned up wearing ridiculous costumes to help attract passing attention.