The United Auto Workers Union has filed unfair labor practice charges against Hyundai, Honda, and Volkswagen with the National Labor Relations Board. The charges accuse the automakers of unlawfully interfering with organizing workers.
UAW claims management at three locations engaged in unlawful “union-busting” as workers organize to join the UAW: Honda in Greensburg, Indiana; Hyundai in Montgomery, Alabama; and Volkswagen in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
The allegations follow the start of an unprecedented organizing campaign at 13 manufacturers earlier this month that covers 150,000 autoworkers. The effort doubles the current union’s membership of the Detroit Three and seeks to build off the momentum of record gains in contracts made with GM, Ford, and Stellantis.
UAW President Shawn Fain announced during a Facebook live event in Washington, D.C., that they are ready to demand their fair share of the pie. “So, the businesses are now using aggressive tactics to protect their profits, even if it means breaking the law and mistreating their employees. They will steal, lie, deceive, and threaten. They will surveil and intimidate people; then they will say, ‘We’re a family,’ with the other side of their mouth.”
In Fains’ video address, he said the UAW faces challenges organizing at employers that have successfully resisted the union for decades. Fain also detailed additional measures of the organizing campaigns, including a 30-50-70 strategy. Fain said the union campaign starts at 30% worker support. At 50%, a rally will be held. At 70%, the UAW will demand recognition or a vote.
