Across the Iron Range, steelworkers and their families rallied together Thursday to show they are united in their fight for a fair contract.
Hundreds of people gathered for the three rallies on the Iron Range. At 3 pm, there were rallies outside of Minorca Mine in Virginia, organized by Local 6115, and near the Local 2660 union hall in Keewatin.
John Dickinson, Grievance Chairman for Local 6115, said, "We're waiting for a fair contract. We don't want to take concessions when the company is making money like they are."
Dave Bombich, who participated as Local 6115 president in the 2015 negotiations, added, "Last time we were out here, the company wasn't in good shape. We made sacrifices, and we want to share in the reward now."
His daughter, Emily, is part of the next generation of steelworker leadership. "I think it's important that the younger steelworkers get involved, and we all need to stick together," she told us.
Many of those folks jumped in their vehicles and headed down to a similar rally for Local 1938 out of Minntac.
That one was organized at Miners Memorial in Virginia, since it would not be allowed on the access road to the plant. Hundreds showed up.
Folks held signs and wore stickers. They were a good blend of people from across the community. Mike Woods from Local 1938 told the crowd, "I see brothers and sisters from the building trades. I see retirees. I see steelworkers from the other mines. This is awesome!" He lead cheers like, "One day longer, one day stronger."
The large group then marched to the corner on 8th Street South, divided up so they were on all four points of the intersection, and chanted, "What do we want? A fair contract. When do we want it? Now!"
Jeremy Lamourea, from Local 1938, said, "We're pretty confident. We've been preparing as a committee. As a group we are prepared for a battle."
An online flier for Keetac's rally said, "Sorry, the Concession Stand is Closed."
Bargaining committees for both U.S. Steel and ArcelorMittal are unhappy with the counter proposals provided by the company.
Contracts for both companies expire on September 1st, which is Saturday. In the past, the companies and unions have agreed to work under the terms of the old contract, while negotiations continue.
Cleveland-Cliffs and their unions start negotiating next week.
>> The article above is reprinted from WDIO, and was written by Renee Passal.