Lansing, Michigan – United Auto Workers (UAW) President Shawn Fain has called for an additional 7,000 workers to go on strike as the union continues its historic strike against the Big Three carmakers. Fain made the announcement during a live video broadcast on Facebook. Despite ongoing negotiations with the automakers, Fain expressed disappointment with Ford and General Motors (GM), stating that they have not made meaningful progress at the bargaining table.
The walkouts will take place at a GM plant in Lansing, Michigan, and a Ford plant in Chicago. This move brings the total number of striking autoworkers to 25,000, which accounts for approximately 17% of the UAW’s membership of 146,000. The Chicago plant produces the Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave, while the Lansing facility manufactures the Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator. However, a metal parts stamping plant in Lansing will remain open.
It is worth noting that the strikes have not extended to Stellantis, the parent company of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram. Fain acknowledged progress made in negotiations with Stellantis, including cost-of-living adjustments and giving workers the right to strike. He expressed hope for continued momentum in these discussions.
The UAW’s strike, known as the “stand-up strike,” began on September 15 when nearly 13,000 autoworkers ceased work at Big Three assembly plants in Michigan, Missouri, and Ohio. A week later, an additional 5,600 workers at 38 GM and Stellantis-owned parts distribution centers in 20 states joined the strike. This marks the first UAW strike since the 2019 walkout at GM.
President Joe Biden made an unprecedented move by joining UAW strikers on the picket line in Michigan and showing his support. He commended the autoworkers for their role in saving the auto industry during the 2008 financial crisis and encouraged them to persevere.
The UAW has presented a list of demands that include a 36% pay increase over a four-year contract, annual cost-of-living adjustments, pension benefits for all employees, greater job security, restrictions on the use of temporary workers, and a four-day work week. Additionally, the union is seeking the elimination of the two-tiered wage system implemented by the automakers after the 2008 financial crisis.
In response, the automakers argue that they have made reasonable counteroffers but claim that the UAW’s demands would make it difficult for them to compete with other car manufacturers. Ford CEO Jim Farley accused Fain of seeking media attention, while GM CEO Mary Barra stated that there is no genuine intention to reach an agreement on the UAW’s part.
The UAW’s strike wave strategy allows them to cause significant disruption while minimizing the number of workers not receiving paychecks. Workers at the Chicago and Lansing plants will receive payment through the UAW’s $825 million strike fund.
The strike’s impact extends beyond the picket lines, potentially affecting car supplies and causing concerns for repair shops fearing delays. As negotiations continue, both parties remain locked in a battle for their respective interests, with no immediate resolution in sight.
