Economy
Oakland City workers represented by SEIU Local 1021, with the solidarity of IBEW 1245 workers, have been participating in an unfair labor practice strike for the last four days, while IFPTE Local 21 has participated in a sympathy strike.
Over the years, the gap between those who have access to Internet and computers and those who don’t has narrowed. However, access to the Internet is still a problem for around 20% of Oakland residents, while around 9% of residents can only access the Internet through a smartphone.
Women have traditionally had very low numbers in welding-related trades across the country. In the Bay Area, teachers and organizations are working to increase access and opportunity for women in industrial fields.
Sunrise Movement calls for California’s Governor Jerry Brown’s attention.
Proposed $15.1 million school budget cut sparks protest
Oakland Unified School District board of directors held a town hall meeting intended to inform the public about impending mid-year budget cuts and give community members the opportunity to ask questions.
Oakland City Council passed a resolution last week that would urge Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) to allow the city to set utility user taxes based on greenhouse gas pollution. The move comes as part of Councilmember Rebecca Kaplan’s efforts to combat climate change and pollution.
On Wednesday, while the school board met in closed session, the Oakland Education Association (OEA) took to the street to protest. With handmade signs, teachers gathered at seven different locations in Oakland to express their thoughts on the proposed school budget.
Nurses picket outside Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center after contracts stalled.