Posts tagged hunger strike
A Durham-based union worker ends 40-day hunger strike protesting Amazon work conditions
September 9, 2026 // Medelius ended his 40-day hunger strike, Sept. 2, 2026, during noon Mass at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Durham. Medelius is 5 feet 3 inches tall and weighed 113 pounds at the end of his hunger strike, down from 150 pounds. "Eating a wafer and drinking watered-down wine lit up all my senses," said Medelius. "It was an incredible experience." Family, friends and Amazon workers attended mass with Medelius, a show of support. Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams was also present. Members of the Durham City Council have also supported Medelius, including Matt Kopac and Javiera Caballero.
Mental health workers go on hunger strike, demanding better pay and benefits
April 14, 2025 // But a few of the striking workers sat quietly under a tent, conserving their energy and mixing electrolyte drinks — their only planned sustenance for five days. Frustrated and feeling unable to get their voices heard after nearly six months of a strike to demand more pay and benefits, these eight therapists were taking their protest to the next level with a five-day hunger strike.
Unions will hold a three-day hunger strike outside of Los Angeles City Hall
December 11, 2024 // In anticipation of the Los Angeles City Council vote on Wednesday, Dec. 9, to increase the minimum wage for tourism workers to $25 per hour, and reaching $30 per hour by 2028, workers represented by Unite Here Local 11 and SEIU-USWW will participate in a three-day hunger strike outside of City Hall. Dozens of airport and hotel workers are expected to take part in the “spiritual journey of foregoing food and drink in hopes of inspiring … city leaders to stand with them and vote for an improved wage and healthcare benefits,” a union contact said.