Protesters Demand Local Hiring In SF Hunters Point Construction
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) — A group of about 40 protesters set up a human blockade for two hours Tuesday in front of the former Hunters Point Naval Shipyard in San Francisco, where a redevelopment project is set to begin.
The group from the Aboriginal Blackman United (ABU) chanted slogans demanding more local workers for the project, which is being overseen by Lennar Corporation.
About 30 protesters with ABU, which is pushing for strong local-hire requirements, blocked tractor-trailer trucks delivering dirt and concrete to the shipyard last week.
On Tuesday, trucks and other vehicles were prevented from entering the gated area again.
Protesters Blockade Lennar Corp. From Hunters Point Construction Site
"We've shut this job down and we're protesting before they get up in here," said James Richards, ABU president.
He said the developer has not hired local with their project to develop some 200 homes in the neighborhood.
"We waited for this about 20 years in the community and it's supposed to be about 20 years worth of work. That's why we're here, because we've been waiting a long time," Richards added.
Samuel Smith, a protester, said the community needs this work.
"Look at the crime here in this area. It's due to the poverty rate here and then you've got a big company that's going to hire other people to work and then exile the community that lives here. I don't think that's right," Smith said.
Official groundbreaking is set for Wednesday. ABU said they plan to be back when that happens.
Lennar has not yet responded to calls for comment by KCBS as of Tuesday afternoon.
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