The United Auto Workers announced on Friday that they will not be expanding their strikes against Detroit’s three automakers. This decision came after General Motors (GM) made a significant concession regarding unionizing electric vehicle battery plants. In response, GM agreed to include workers at battery factories in the UAW’s national contract, ensuring their representation by the union. Union President Shawn Fain expressed his excitement over this breakthrough, stating that it will not only impact ongoing negotiations but also the future of the entire industry. Fain made these remarks in a video appearance to workers on Friday.
During his address, Fain wore a T-shirt with the phrase “Eat the Rich” displayed prominently. This choice was meant to emphasize his belief that it is time for the working class to make significant gains in contrast to billionaires. Fain expressed confidence in the UAW’s progress with GM and stated that they expect similar outcomes with Ford and Stellantis. GM and Stellantis did not directly comment on the unionization of battery factories, while Ford maintained its position that workers will have to choose whether to join the union once they are hired at these plants that have yet to be constructed. Ford added that they are open to the possibility of working with the UAW on future battery plants in the US, given the substantial investments required for such projects. They also emphasized the importance of maintaining sustainable competitiveness.
Fain also mentioned the potential for additional plants to join the strikes in the future. He revealed that GM made this change in response to the union’s threat to strike at a plant in Arlington, Texas, where highly profitable large SUVs such as the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon are produced. Fain noted that GM took this step as a means of avoiding significant financial loss. He described the move as a “just transition” from combustion engines to electric vehicles. Fain emphasized that progress has been made with all three companies during negotiations. For instance, Ford’s general wage proposal has increased from 9% to 23% over four years. GM and Stellantis are currently at 20%. While Fain acknowledges that these raises are not sufficient, he believes that they bring the negotiations closer to a satisfactory outcome.
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