My name is Joaquin Ramos, I have just recently moved to Chicago from Detroit to look for work. I was both happy and excited to begin a new life here in Chicago and being able to find work at United States Gear Corporation, which was just what I needed in order to get my life back on track. Taking into consideration the present state of the economy and the lack of jobs in Michigan I was extremely grateful to have a job, and it was shown through my work ethic. Completely out of the blue I was let go on Friday January 29th. I pleaded to my supervisor (Mike Lobaugh) for my job, but I was just told “I’ve already made my decision.” I was in utter disbelief. As I began to try and save my job by stating my production and work effort, I was abruptly cut off by Mike Lobaugh- ”No, I’ve made up my mind and besides this place is beginning to get too brown for me anyways.”
What Mr. Mike Lobaugh could not have know is, the huge mistake that he was making by directing his racial comment towards a Xicano activist who would without a doubt not let it go unchallenged. I will be protesting the termination of my job as well as the racial discrimination of myself by my former employer (United States Gear Corp.).
I will be picketing with signs outside the front of the factory, which is located at 1020 West 119th Street in Chicago, Illinois 60643. I plan on gaining support, and raising awareness about this incident. I will start protesting in front of the factory tomorrow, 2/3/2010, at Noon until 4pm. On Thursday, 2/4/2010, I will start protesting at 10am until 4pm. On Friday, 2/5/2010, I will begin protesting at 10am until 4pm.
"If we as a nation are ever going to achieve that status of true greatness, then we must be courageous enough to deal with matters pertaining to race and racism, without seeking the artificial cloak of denial as some sort of safe haven."
paz y rEVOLUCION!!~
