Steelworkers rally in downtown Hamilton against lay-offs and pension cuts marching under the slogan "Oppose Economic Terrorism." Dec. 14, 2009

The rally covered all four corners of Main and James streets. Workers from U.S. Steel (formerly Stelco) handed out flyers as they have done every Monday afternoon for the past year. The flyer attacked "the monopolies and the rich" for the economic crisis and called for "public ownership and control over the basic sectors of the economy."

At least one U.S. Steel executive was brave enough to put in an appearance.

Five years ago, USW 1005 workers fought hard to protect their pensions during Stelco's bankruptcy. Now they fear the new owners (U.S. Steel) are planning to come after their pensions.

United Steelworkers 1005 members flew their banners from the top of Jackson Square mall.

Sharon Kaberle, a Nortel worker, spoke out against bankruptcy laws that do little to protect workers' benefits and pensions. Nortel workers faced the loss of pensions and benefits after the company declared bankruptcy. Nortel is expected to emerge out of bankruptcy with $6 billion.

Bill Mahoney, a poet and former Steelworker, performed "Suzy's Christmas"
"We are proud Steelworkers from Local 1005. /
Forged in the struggle of 46, the spirit is still alive./
We'll never let the companies steal money from the sick and old./
So they can give it to the rich to use to buy more gold."