Gadsden may be just the tip of the iceberg. Few steel companies are able to turn a profit while huge quantities of steel are dumped in our country. Reemergence of the steel crisis has prompted 74 steel companies to join our union in petitioning the White House to take comprehensive action against the flood of steel under Section 201 of U.S. trade laws. When the plant closed, the union hall was filled with members. Now, just a handful come by each day.
Most people phone in now, asking if anything is new.
Local 2176 President Earl Guyton said that some local health clinics and doctors have opened their doors to his unemployed members, based on their ability to pay. United Way also provides assistance. Gulf States employees have become creditors in the money owed to them. About 300 people have found jobs. Many have gone to Atlanta and Mobile.