The United Auto Workers (UAW) President Shawn Fain informed members that the union would continue its strike, demanding even better deals despite the Detroit-Three automakers offering record contracts.
On October 20, President Fain stated in his most recent Facebook live speech that the planned compensation increases over the 4.5-year contract began at 9% and currently sit at 23% for all big three automakers. Additionally, the OEMs have promised to increase 401(k) retirement contributions and reduce the time needed to achieve the top income.
While negotiations continue, the UAW has extended its strike to include roughly 6,800 workers at a Stellantis plant in Michigan, which produces Ram 1500 full-size pickup vehicles. The strike at Stellantis’ Sterling Heights Assembly Plant brings the number of UAW members on strike to more than 40,000. Additionally, it marks the first escalation in the union strike in over two weeks and the first new work stoppage at Stellantis in over a month.
Some members have taken to social media to vent their frustration with the strike, describing the strain living off of $500 a week. However, Fain issued them a message: “Our ability to hold out, to hit the companies economically, and to withhold our labor is our leverage, and this is our path to victory. … We have one tool, and that’s solidarity.”
The Big Three’s Current Offers:
Details of General Motors‘ most recent offer include improvements for temporary employees, with the automaker willing to provide immediate conversion to permanent status for those with one year on the job. According to GM, most workers would make $84,000 annually by the end of the agreement, which described the offer as the most significant ever made to the UAW.
Bill Ford, the executive chair of Ford, also weighed in stating: “We know that the prolonged strike negatively affects our UAW employees due to missed pay and profit-sharing. We can’t wait to wrap up these negotiations with a deal that genuinely enhances their quality of life and ensures a bright future for all. We are excited to work together to create a fantastic business providing excellent jobs for future generations.”
