WTOL.com: News, Weather and Sport for Toledo, OhioCooper Tire workers reach out to UT students

Cooper Tire workers reach out to UT students

TOLEDO, OH (WTOL) – Cooper Tire workers spent part of their Monday in a classroom on the University of Toledo's campus trying to receive their help.

Employees of the company have been locked out for nearly two months, and want young people to understand their situation.

"I think that the students were curious about how it was affecting us emotionally down there on the picket lines." said Union President Rod Nelson.

Workers explained that they rejected a labor deal from their company in November, and thought they would go back to the bargaining table. Instead, they were locked out of Cooper Tire, and replacement workers were brought in.

"I just want to know more about the culture of what's involved with the union and how these people have to make a living.  And other people have to make livings also, so they're just trying to work for their lives I guess." student Dan Clements told WTOL.

Cooper Tire explained that it is not preventing people from working. They say that the only thing the workers have to do is accept the company version of the contract.

Workers says that will not be happening, and will spread their message to the community until the situation is resolved.

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