SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.com) — A Hispanic group is going to hold a rally at 7 tonight (Thursday) in support of workers at the Sioux Falls Smithfield packing plant.
Spokeswoman Nancy Reynoza says in a release that her group–Que Pasa Sioux Falls–believes Smithfield is not taking care of its employees and has exposed them to COVID-19.
She also said since Smithfield has over 40,000 workers, workers won’t qualify for most of the benefits in recent coronavirus measures passed by Congress.
Que Pasa is a non-profit media organization that supports the Hispanic community in Sioux Falls.
Below is their news release along with more details about their in-car rally.
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Driving in Solidarity for Smithfield Employees
April 09, 2020 Sioux Falls, SD: Yesterday it was obvious that Smithfield company is not taking care of its employees and has exposed them to COVID-19, they are our loved ones, friends, families, neighbors!
Smithfield has 3600 employees in Sioux Falls, and over 40,000 worldwide. Therefore, Smithfield employees will not be eligible for Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act or Emergency Family and Medical Expansion Act, found in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. (FFCRA). As outlined in the SD Department of Labor Covid Scenarios current employees at Smithfield are not eligible for any unemployment assistance or pandemic unemployment assistance provided in FFCRA. Smithfield knows this and continues to expose their employees to this hazard without taking proper steps to mitigate the risks of exposure, this is nothing short of irresponsible behavior.
Friends, together with other community advocates will be driving in show of solidarity TODAY at 7pm for employees of Smithfield. We will be starting in Sioux Falls Park and drive along weber street. 3 days is not enough, employees should get tested, the facilities deep cleaned.
Updated information can be found on facebook:
What: Drive of Solidarity for Smithfield Employees Where: Falls Park, Sioux Falls SD When: Friday April 09, 2020 Time: 7-8PM
Que Pasa Sioux Falls- Que Pasa Sioux Falls is a media communication non-profit organization formed to enrich, educate and empower the Latino Community by being a primary source of information.
