ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Several baristas gathered outside a Starbucks on Perryville Road on Thursday, trading their coffee cups for picket signs to demand a fair contract.

The rally, organized by Starbucks Workers United, was part of a national effort involving 70 pickets across more than 60 cities. Baristas are advocating for improved staffing, hours, pay, and on-the-job protections, particularly as the busy holiday season approaches.

"Starbucks, they've been stonewalling since about day one and it's just, we're all fed up. We want the change and we want the change that we deserve, not just any change," said Ash Schamper, a Starbucks barista.

The demonstration comes as baristas begin voting on whether to authorize a nationwide strike. This move underscores the growing tensions between

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