Workers at a Stellantis distribution center in Carrollton joined a nationwide strike demanding increased wages, enhanced job security and improved conditions for temporary workers.
Employees at a General Motors parts distribution center in Roanoke and another at a Stellantis distribution center in Carrollton are the latest to join the strike against the major companies.
These workers are uniting with approximately 12,700 of their fellow colleagues across three assembly plants situated in Missouri, Ohio and Michigan, broadening the scope of a strike that was initiated over a week ago. The strike expanded to encompass workers at 38 different locations spanning across 20 states, primarily in distribution centers.
“This will impact these two companies’ repair operations,” United Auto Workers union president Shawn Fain said during a Facebook live video. “Our message to the consumer is simple. The way to fix the frustrating customer experience is for the companies to end price gouging — invest these record profits into stable jobs and sustainable wages and benefits.”
According to AP, only 12% of the union's membership is participating in the strike. The UAW possesses the potential to significantly increase the number of workers involved in the strike, potentially affecting assembly plants and parts facilities operated by General Motors, Ford and Stellantis.
One of the central points under discussion in the negotiations revolves around the need for increased wages, bolstered job security, fair treatment of temporary workers and the elimination of the existing "tier-based" pay systems within these companies. Fain expressed optimism in the live video, noting that there has been some headway regarding tiered wages. However, he also emphasized that achieving a resolution will require substantial effort and pressure on the part of both GM and Stellantis.
On Sept. 15, 2023, General Motors released a statement about the initiation of the strike at the first three assembly plants.
“We are disappointed by the UAW leadership’s actions, despite the unprecedented economic package GM put on the table, including historic wage increases and manufacturing commitments,” the statement said. “We will continue to bargain in good faith with the union to reach an agreement as quickly as possible for the benefit of our team members, customers, suppliers and communities across the U.S.”
President Joe Biden showed support for those participating in the strike and will join the workers against the automakers. He is set to arrive in Michigan on Sept. 26, days before Donald Trump is set to give his own speech in Michigan.
