For over 81 years, the Firestone rubber plantation in Liberia has been characterized by child labor, the abuse of workers' rights and the destruction of the local environment. In Firestone's history in Liberia, workers have been represented by a "company union" which was controlled by Firestone management and did not represent the concerns of workers.

On July 7, 2007, workers had the first ever free, fair and democratic union elections on the plantation. However, Firestone management is refusing to recognize the newly elected leaders and is actively taking steps to undermine the new leadership and create divisions among workers. This is a clear union-busting strategy being used by Firestone to avoid having to negotiate with a truly representative union.

For a more comprehensive description of the situation please visit: www.StopFirestone.org/union.htm

Having a democratic and independent union voice is a critical part of workers being able to improve the conditions on the Firestone plantation in Liberia -- called a "gulag of misery" in the legal complaint!