As the United Auto Workers (UAW) strike against General Motors continues, President Gary Jones issued a warning that new walkouts could happen at any time. Jones made the announcement during negotiations between the union and company reps in Detroit last week.
This would mark the fourth time in 16 months that UAW members have taken to the picket lines. The nearly month-long strike has seen a total of 48,000 hourly and salaried workers protesting pay increases, affordable health care, job security, and a path to permanent employment for temporary workers. This dispute has grown to include unresolved issues with total compensation and profit-sharing.
The UAW President warned that the union is prepared to take whatever steps are necessary to ensure that a fair and equitable agreement is reached. Despite not reaching an agreement so far, both sides have reported that ongoing negotiations are in good faith with respectful dialogue.
Jones also outlined a contingency plan that the UAW would activate in the event of further walkouts, citing a desire to protect workers and their families. This plan includes ensuring access to a hardship fund to help support workers during stoppages, and organizing support programs to provide temporary relief from financial pressures.
In an attempt to show solidarity, over 60 prominent Democratic presidential candidates, including Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, have expressed their support for the union and critiqued GM’s actions towards UAW members. While the UAW remains hopeful for a satisfactory resolution, Jones has made it clear that they are fully committed to their cause and are not afraid to take further action.
