Local 2 Dancing Pickets: A Strike at Zim's Coffeehouse

This footage documents a unique and spirited labor action where members of the Alliance for the Rank and File from Local 2 HERE (Hotel Employees and Restaurant Employees International Union) led a strike against the Zim's Coffeehouse chain, characterized by dancing pickets.

Strike Background: The strike would have been organized due to issues such as poor working conditions, low wages, lack of benefits, or other labor disputes common in the hospitality industry. The choice of Zim's Coffeehouse as the target could reflect specific grievances against this employer.
Dancing Pickets: Instead of the traditional, often somber picket lines, this strike employs dancing as a form of protest, turning the picket line into an engaging, public, and possibly more effective demonstration. This method not only keeps the spirits of the strikers high but also attracts attention, making a statement about unity, joy, and resilience in the face of labor disputes.
Visuals and Impact: The video likely shows union members, possibly in uniforms or with signs, dancing in front of Zim's locations. This could include various dance moves, perhaps even choreographed routines, set to music or simply the rhythm of their collective action. Such an approach can draw in onlookers, media coverage, and potentially sway public opinion in favor of the workers' cause.
Cultural and Strategic Elements: The use of dance in this context might also reflect cultural elements within the community or the union, adding layers of expression to their activism. Strategically, it's an innovative way to keep morale up during what can be a long and trying process, showcasing the workers' determination and creativity.

This footage serves as both a historical record of labor activism and a testament to the creative ways workers can protest for their rights, blending cultural expression with labor action.