HONOLULU -- Honolulu Advertiser employees on Friday rallied outside the newspaper building to protest the layoffs of 54 employees and to demand a new contract.

The Advertiser employees have been without a new contract for a year.

They are challenging the layoffs. They said they want a new contract and want to see Gannett Co.'s financial records.

Among those holding signs was Marilei Daniels, who was laid off this week after working as an Advertiser dispatcher for 38 years.

"I am OK because I was about ready to retire, but emotionally it's disturbing when I look at all these young faces. I mean, these people bought new homes, family cars -- I mean, how are they going to survive?" Daniels said.

"It's absolutely devastating. This is my life. My passion is news. I don't know what to do now," former Advertiser photographer Joaquin Siopack said.

Union officials met with Advertiser management Friday.

Advertiser President and Publisher Lee Webber did not return KITV's calls to comment.