A change in store management is imminent in this big-box store in this upstate NY small town, and there is a buzz about this in Movement. The whole department, responsible for unloading the trucks of merchandise and distributing it throughout the store, is discussing how this might impact them. Perhaps they can find a way to rid themselves of Meredith, their patronizing, misguided supervisor who does more to hinder than help them throughout their shifts. When Val comes up with a plan, it feels like they suddenly have a purpose. But will it work?
Imagine “The Office” for a Target-like warehouse, with characters with real-life problems (such as trying to stretch their paychecks at the end of the month by checking in at the local church’s food bank when their food stamps aren’t working) — and this is that story. These characters work together, rely on each other to ensure that their assembly line functioning runs smoothly, and they get to know each other as we get to know them. We become familiar with their quirks, their senses of humor, their short tempers, their vanities, and their personal sources of shame. But we also see how they unite toward a common goal, and how this energizes and inspires them. Even for a moment.
I love this story because it is about the Americans who truly run this country. It is about the folks who are behind the scenes, working their day-to-day jobs, following the rules, but who are at the mercy of our economy. They are the ones who suffer when companies cut back hours and cut back on benefits, not allowing for overtime pay, for healthcare, for earning a living wage. But at the same time, these companies expect hard work and loyalty, even when they do not show this in return. And heaven forbid these employees unionize in order to gain these benefits.
I may sound like a socialist here. I’m not. But I do believe that folks have a right to earn a living wage. I do believe folks have a right to healthcare. And I believe that treating employees well does foster a healthy, energized, and loyal workforce that creates better businesses. Not every decision should be about dollars and cents. Some business decisions should be about sense.
An interesting story, great characters, and so true to life.
kindread spirits 