Welcome to the Washington DC Fact Checker
All of the talk about Walmart coming to Washington DC has understandably created a lot of conversation, especially among the special interests that are working to deny Washingtonians the ability to choose where they shop for groceries and other household goods.
In the interest of ensuring that facts and substance inform the opinions of Washingtonians, we have set up this page to share information, dispel common misperceptions and continue to answer any questions that you might have about Walmart.
We know Washingtonians are used to asking tough questions and we welcome that. So ask away - the facts may surprise you.
A case against the case against Walmart
As people crowded into local D.C. grocery stores last weekend, gobbling up a limited supply of water and canned goods in preparation for Hurricane Irene, some may have found themselves pining for the open aisles, vast selection, and efficient check-out operation offered by Walmart.
These shoppers may get their wish in time for next year’s hurricane season, as the retail giant has announced plans to open four stores in the District starting in 2012.
A coalition of labor unions and advocacy groups calling itself “Living Wages, Healthy Communities” has staked out opposition to this plan, arguing that the big-box behemoth claims jobs, reduces wages and destroys communities. Research suggests that these claims are little more than myths.
The Vocal Minority Rallies…Again.
While Walmart was at the Washington Navy Yard today to talk about the economy and solutions for our veterans a few local union front groups were repeating the same urban legends, thumbing their nose at public opinion and rallying to block jobs and low prices from some of the people who need them most.
We found this claim to be particularly curious: “Wal-Mart is planning to open four stores in Washington, D.C., but the retailer hasn’t met with community members to talk about standards for respecting workers and the neighborhoods.”
The fact is, we’ve already participated in more than 60 open community forums across wards 4, 5, 6 and 7, not to mention countless discussions and meetings with elected officials, stakeholders and decision-makers here in the city. We’ve also met with representatives from the Washington Council, AFL-CIO, Laborers International Union of North America, Mid Atlantic Region Council of Carpenters, Teamsters, SEIU and local UFCW Local 400.
Not only is the DC customer voice on this issue clear, but our level of engagement with the community is indisputable. We look forward to continuing the conversation with the city as we get closer to opening our first four stores in Washington, D.C.
