Friday, November 22, 2013

Pearl Jam's LA Shows To Be Picketed By IATSE Local 33


It seems that Pearl Jam, a band that has always been an outspoken advocate for the underprivileged, is being put in the awkward position of having to ask fans to cross a picket line in order to see their shows this weekend, and for that matter, to cross the line themselves.

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) will be outside the Los Angeles Sports Arena this Saturday and Sunday from 6 to 7:30pm protesting USC's decision to hire non-union works to staff Pearl Jam's two LA shows this weekend.
“Unfortunately, the crew members that should be inside making sure this concert is safe are going to be out front on the picket line,” IATSE Local 33 Business Manager Mark Madrigal said in the statement. “We’re not asking for additional wages or benefits. All we are asking is that USC honor the contract that has been in place for decades. Instead USC is ignoring our members and its obligation to its neighbors and to our communities and hire cheaper workers to make more money.”

Los Angeles City Councilman Paul Koretz added, “These facilities are owned by the public, and we have a right to expect that our taxpayer dollars will go to support the Los Angeles economy and good jobs, not line the pockets of USC at the expense of our citizens. USC should stand up and be good corporate citizens in this matter and continue the policy that has worked for decades for all parties.”
The band hasn't issued a statement or responded to requests for comments, but surely this development won't sit well with the band who wrote Green Disease and Unemployable.  What do you think?  Should Pearl Jam take action?  Issue a statement?  Should fans feel bad for crossing the line?  Let us know on our forum.