MAY 18, 2005

After months of stalling, lack of significant progress at the Region 4 bargaining table, and illegal changes in the workplace by court administration, court interpreters emphatically declared their frustration with the process by staging a region-wide work action. Interpreters called off en masse and did not show up for work on Tuesday May 17, 2005. Between 95 and 98 percent of the 150 court interpreter pro tempores in the region participated in the successful call offs. In addition to the pro tems who called off, many independent contractors supported the action by declaring themselves unavailable and taking work in the private sector. Rallies were held at three court locations where interpreters gathered to cast their votes to authorize a strike. At this time, even though we are awaiting more ballots that will come in through the mail, based on the ballots already cast, it appears that the strike authorization vote will pass overwhelmingly.

As we anticipated, even though some courts were able to cover some assignments, the vast majority had to scramble to even partially cover their needs. Interpreters in Los Angeles reported being called by the Region 4 courts as late as 7:30 p.m. on Monday and being asked to cover the various Region 4 courts. We are happy to say that the Region 1 interpreters stood in solidarity with their union brethren and refused to accept assignments here. Despite the fact that the courts downplayed the impact of the call offs, in many cases the courts had to settle for non-certified interpreters, some of whom were asking court personnel how to say "probation" and "plead" in Spanish.

We received reports that the courts, (who keep pleading poverty, and have not had enough motivation to put any economic proposals on the table after almost ten months of bargaining), somehow found enough money to offer agencies and non-certified interpreters between $350 and $400 per diem to replace the pro tems. It seems that if the courts can find so much money to replace their non-benefitted employees, it is only reasonable to expect that they can put together an economic offer that recognizes and respects the professionalism and years of loyal service these employees have given the courts. The courts have the power to make employment attractive enough so that interpreters won't feel the need to resort to work actions.

Thanks to everyone who helped make this action such a success and who had the courage to carry a message to the Region 4 courts. The message that interpreters are ready, willing, and able to do what it takes to demand the respect, dignity, and benefits we deserve, and that we will settle for no less.

In Solidarity,

Your Region 4 Bargaining Committee and

CFI/CWA Representatives