Ashton, who enrolled in Walmart’s healthcare plan in order to provide insurance to his two children, brings home on average $1200-1400 a month. Often he is unable to pay his rent in full because his bi-weekly paycheck does not cover the full amount.
Ashton joined Organizing United for Respect at Walmart (OUR Walmart) because he wanted to have a voice on the job and the ability to speak with management about working conditions without fear of retaliation.
When asked what $25,000 a year would mean for him Ashton’s remark was simple: “Freedom…freedom to do more things for my children.”
“I don’t need or want much,” he continued. “Yes, it would be nice to have a car or maybe a house. It would even be nice to have more than $10 in my bank account. Sam Walton said ‘you treat employees right, treat customers right and we all make money.’ Walmart does not does not live up to that and I am going to keep fighting until they do.”
Making Change at Walmart is a campaign challenging Walmart to help rebuild our economy and strengthen working families. Anchored by the United Food & Commercial Workers, it’s a coalition of Walmart associates, union members, small business owners, religious leaders, community organizations, women’s advocacy groups, multi-ethnic coalitions, elected officials and ordinary citizens who believe that changing Walmart is vital for the future of our country.
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