On September 19th, 2016 Seattle became the second city in the United States to pass a law that addressed the unpredictable nature of scheduling in the retail and food service industries. In support of this legislation, REI employees courageously spoke at the public hearings leading up to the historic vote which unanimously passed and was cause for celebration at the Seattle flagship store.

It is unfortunate that retail workers at REI have to rely on laws for protection, because the co-op refuses to offer its store workforce hours that they can survive on or enough full-time opportunities for those who rely solely on their small incomes from REI. That such a reputable retailer and icon of Seattle isn’t living by the values it takes great pride in professing, is unconscionable. REI should be leading the way by setting an example in the retail industry, and not waiting for laws to force the co-op’s leadership into taking better care of its people. Stand with REI retail workers for a better way of life at a co-op.

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