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Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID-19 ou

HenryChinaski

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Oakland McDonald's workers strike after COVID-19 concerns
OAKLAND — After allegedly being told to masks made out of dog diapers, employees of a McDonald’s in Oakland went on strike Tuesday, effectively shutting down the restaurant, after at least four workers and their family members got sick with COVID-19.

The 22 workers of the Telegraph Avenue fast-food restaurant did not show up to work Tuesday, striking to demand a two-week paid quarantine period, company-paid medical costs and a deep cleaning of the store, plus proper personal protective equipment. Organizers say the cooks, cashiers and other workers were told to wear face masks made out of unused dog diapers or use coffee filters to make masks when they ran out of masks handed out by management.
“McDonald’s is treating us like dogs,” said worker Delia Vargas in a statement. “We don’t want to die for their hamburgers so we are going on strike, to protect ourselves, our families and our communities.”



At least four workers tested positive for COVID-19 within the past week. At least three others, including one worker who is pregnant, are exhibiting symptoms of the virus as well. Family members of those who became sick, including a 10-month-old baby, also tested positive, according to The Fight for $15, an organization that helps organize fast-food workers.
I am so glad that I don't work in fast food or in a capacity where I need to interact with the public on this level. From the cashiers, butchers and stock people at my local grocery stores to anyone working in fast food, I feel terrible for all of them. They're risking their lives in order for us to keep living lives of comfort and convenience. It's a crappy way to make a paycheck and these days it can be downright deadly.
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

Oakland McDonald's workers strike after COVID-19 concerns I am so glad that I don't work in fast food or in a capacity where I need to interact with the public on this level. From the cashiers, butchers and stock people at my local grocery stores to anyone working in fast food, I feel terrible for all of them. They're risking their lives in order for us to keep living lives of comfort and convenience. It's a crappy way to make a paycheck and these days it can be downright deadly.

When someone says " People have to get back to work!" half the time they mean, "The people who serve me have to get back to work!"
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

When someone says " People have to get back to work!" half the time they mean, "The people who serve me have to get back to work!"
Exactly, Another thing that I'm wondering, why would anyone in their right mind patronize a fast food place and buy food that was prepared and served by those not wearing protective gear? It's in the best interest of the owners to provide their workers with proper protective gear thus helping protect their workforce and their customers.
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

Ok. I was in a convenience store today where the cashier was proclaiming she was glad people were going to have to start wearing masks as she stood behind the counter wearing no mask.
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

Ok. I was in a convenience store today where the cashier was proclaiming she was glad people were going to have to start wearing masks as she stood behind the counter wearing no mask.

Her employer should of had her wearing one. And I personally would have considered going elsewhere if I could.
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

For those who must wear a mask at work, and there must be huge numbers by now, I wonder how long it will take before URIs are reported that likely stem from excessive mask wearing, which is by definition blockage of the airway.
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

Oakland McDonald's workers strike after COVID-19 concerns I am so glad that I don't work in fast food or in a capacity where I need to interact with the public on this level. From the cashiers, butchers and stock people at my local grocery stores to anyone working in fast food, I feel terrible for all of them. They're risking their lives in order for us to keep living lives of comfort and convenience. It's a crappy way to make a paycheck and these days it can be downright deadly.
Here's something to ponder:

These employees are working because they are considered "essential". But the make minimum wage for the most part, with **** benefits. Why are those providing our essential services minimum wage? They should be paid commensurate with their societal value.

"Give 'em a raise!"
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

Here's something to ponder:

These employees are working because they are considered "essential". But the make minimum wage for the most part, with **** benefits. Why are those providing our essential services minimum wage? They should be paid commensurate with their societal value.

"Give 'em a raise!"

Agree 100%. On a side note, I have been using Instacart more these days(awesome service so far) to avoid having to go to the grocery store. These shoppers that are placing themselves at risk are to be commended and I am tipping them very well. If you have anything delivered to you, try to tip as best as you can.
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

Here's something to ponder:

These employees are working because they are considered "essential". But the make minimum wage for the most part, with **** benefits. Why are those providing our essential services minimum wage? They should be paid commensurate with their societal value.

"Give 'em a raise!"
What does it say about people that they consider McDonalds fast food workers 'essential' employees.
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

Agree 100%. On a side note, I have been using Instacart more these days(awesome service so far) to avoid having to go to the grocery store. These shoppers that are placing themselves at risk are to be commended and I am tipping them very well. If you have anything delivered to you, try to tip as best as you can.
You preaching to the choir my friend, but I'm glad to hear it! I heartily thank the delivery guys when they deliver to my neighbors, and not even coming to my house!

But I've been starting to relax a bit. I still only do groceries every few weeks, but I have been doing carry-out once a week now. Life is not worth living without pizza ...
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

For those who must wear a mask at work, and there must be huge numbers by now, I wonder how long it will take before URIs are reported that likely stem from excessive mask wearing, which is by definition blockage of the airway.

Intubation also blocks airways

Choice is obvious
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

What does it say about people that they consider McDonalds fast food workers 'essential' employees.

It says that those people value workers providing a service that many Americans get pissed off if that convenient service becomes disrupted and they can't get their Big Macs
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

What does it say about people that they consider McDonalds fast food workers 'essential' employees.
It's not just fast-food, but also groceries, drug stores, etc. It took a pandemic for society to realize their value. And yeah, if you spend your days out & about, fast-food is likely important. Not everyone has the time or cash for dine-in.
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

Agree 100%. On a side note, I have been using Instacart more these days(awesome service so far) to avoid having to go to the grocery store. These shoppers that are placing themselves at risk are to be commended and I am tipping them very well. If you have anything delivered to you, try to tip as best as you can.

On average, Insta cart workers are bringing home 2k per week, now.
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

Here's something to ponder:

These employees are working because they are considered "essential". But the make minimum wage for the most part, with **** benefits. Why are those providing our essential services minimum wage? They should be paid commensurate with their societal value.

"Give 'em a raise!"

While I agree, are americans ready to pay more for their stuff? Cuz the executives certainly won't take a pay CUT, nor will the shareholders.
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

It's not just fast-food, but also groceries, drug stores, etc. It took a pandemic for society to realize their value. And yeah, if you spend your days out & about, fast-food is likely important. Not everyone has the time or cash for dine-in.
Dine in wasnt an option either. I just think its funny the things people classify as 'essential' as compared to what they lose their mind over being opened.

At the end of the day, they are still fast food workers. Nothing but love for them, but its a minimum wage job.
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

It says that those people value workers providing a service that many Americans get pissed off if that convenient service becomes disrupted and they can't get their Big Macs
Of all the inconveniences.......
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

On average, Insta cart workers are bringing home 2k per week, now.

No ****e? that's good stuff. And I would think that it's safer than driving for Uber/Uber eats and slightly less wear and tear on their cars.
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

When someone says " People have to get back to work!" half the time they mean, "The people who serve me have to get back to work!"
Most people want to work to make money. Not being able to pay the bills is no joke. Having said that, if McD's want to stay in business, why don't they score more masks? Is this a franchise issue or a general one?
I also understand frustration, but because someone suggested dog diapers as an alternative, it doesn't imply that
“McDonald’s is treating us like dogs,” said worker Delia Vargas in a statement.
I know my way around dog diapers. Our Love wore them with pride. I think that is actually not a bad idea. They come in many sizes, colors and configurations. With a bit of adjustment, that could work.
Dog Diaper Male Belly Band Wrap Reusable Washable For SMALL | Etsy
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

Of all the inconveniences.......

That's Murica' man. We can't live without our Whoppers, Slurpies and NetFlix..
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

While I agree, are americans ready to pay more for their stuff? Cuz the executives certainly won't take a pay CUT, nor will the shareholders.
I would have no problem with it. In fact, I've often been a proponent of it. To get to 15 an hour was something like 10-15 cents on a Big Mac. I'd kick-in and extra 5 or 10 percent, if that's what it takes? Maybe even 15.
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

I would have no problem with it. In fact, I've often been a proponent of it. To get to 15 an hour was something like 10-15 cents on a Big Mac. I'd kick-in and extra 5 or 10 percent, if that's what it takes? Maybe even 15.
The problem is probably not going to be felt with the corporate chains like McDonalds. Seattle has already shown...small business restaurants will e shut down and where they stay open, employee hours will be cut.
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

Most people want to work to make money. Not being able to pay the bills is no joke. Having said that, if McD's want to stay in business, why don't they score more masks? Is this a franchise issue or a general one?
I also understand frustration, but because someone suggested dog diapers as an alternative, it doesn't imply that

I know my way around dog diapers. Our Love wore them with pride. I think that is actually not a bad idea. They come in many sizes, colors and configurations. With a bit of adjustment, that could work.
Dog Diaper Male Belly Band Wrap Reusable Washable For SMALL | Etsy

It's a hell of a message to send to employees. In my career in heavy construction I often had to wear special PPE and no way would any employer have insulted me like that. No way. Just jury-rigging a necessary protective device, never mind from what, shows a lack of respect. Nobody I ever worked for would act like that toward employees.
Shut your doors until you get decent gear.
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

No ****e? that's good stuff. And I would think that it's safer than driving for Uber/Uber eats and slightly less wear and tear on their cars.

Safer? I don't think so, not from a disease standpoint. That shopper has to handle lots of stuff, and interact and be around lots of people. But yes, WAY better on their cars.
 
Re: Allegedly told to wear masks out of dog diapers, Oakland McDonald’s workers strike after COVID

I would have no problem with it. In fact, I've often been a proponent of it. To get to 15 an hour was something like 10-15 cents on a Big Mac. I'd kick-in and extra 5 or 10 percent, if that's what it takes? Maybe even 15.
I can't fathom why anyone that can afford to pay a nickel or dime more for a dang Big Mac would have a problem doing so.
 
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