On October 3, 2019, the United Auto Workers (UAW) announced that it was expanding its nationwide strike against General Motors for the fourth time. The strike, which began on September 15, is the first national strike since 2007 and is now covering more than 48,000 workers at 55 plants and other facilities nationwide.
The most recent expansion was a move by the UAW to target a facility in Warren, Michigan, that manufactures the popular RAM Truck. This move is significant because it is the first time the union has targeted one of GM’s most well-known vehicle lines.
The decision to expand the strike comes after weeks of stalled negotiations between the UAW and GM. The two sides have been at an impasse on a range of issues, including wages, health care, and job security. While the UAW is asking GM to match workers’ wages with the industry’s best, GM has proposed a wage freeze, along with cuts to workers’ health care and other benefits.
In response to the UAW’s expansion of the strike, GM has said it will remain “steadfast in its commitment to negotiate in good faith.” The two sides are reportedly continuing to talk, with no end to the strike in sight.
The UAW strike is having increasingly far-reaching effects, from costly losses to GM and its suppliers, to shortages of parts for vehicles not produced by GM. In addition, the strike has had an impact on the local communities near GM’s facilities, as the workers are not receiving pay while they are on strike.
Despite the economic cost of the union’s action, the UAW is committed to standing up for its members and their rights. It is clear the union is determined to ensure its members get the wages, health care, and job security they deserve and will continue to expand the strike as necessary.