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PLATFORM : Poor Pay the Price

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<i> FELIX SANTANA of Santa Ana has crossed picket lines set up by other drywallers, mostly Latino immigrants, who seek union representation because of low wages and the lack of medical benefits. He told The Times:</i>

I hope the drywallers can organize. But in my case, I have no time for the union. My first concern is my family. I’ll do whatever I have to do to keep my kids fed and a home to live in.

I haven’t the time to walk a picket line or fight with workers who cross the picket line. Who wouldn’t want to get a fair wage? Who wouldn’t want to get health care for their children? Who wouldn’t want a job that offers security? But this world has never been easy for the poor. We are always battling for a little extra.

For some, the unions offer hope. But for others, strikes and picket lines don’t keep food on the table. If I can work, I will. If it means I have to cross a picket line, then I will.

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It hurts when I’m called names because I cross the picket line. My wife and kids worry about me because of the threats I’ve gotten. Call me what you like, or do to me what you must. I must do what I have to do. Who’s right? I don’t know. But why is it that it’s always the poor who pay the price?

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