Workers strike at all 3 Detroit automakers, a new tactic to squeeze companies for better pay
CTV
Nearly one in 10 of America's unionized autoworkers went on strike Friday to pressure Detroit's three automakers into raising wages in an era of big profits and as the industry begins a costly transition from gas guzzlers to electric vehicles.
Nearly one in 10 of America's unionized auto workers went on strike Friday to pressure Detroit's three automakers into raising wages in an era of big profits and as the industry begins a costly transition from gas guzzlers to electric vehicles.
By striking simultaneously at General Motors, Ford and Chrysler owner Stellantis for the first time in its history, the United Auto Workers union is trying to inflict a new kind of pain on the companies and claw back some pay and benefits workers gave up in recent decades.
The strikes are limited for now to three assembly plants: a GM factory in Wentzville, Missouri, a Ford plant in Wayne, Michigan, near Detroit, and a Jeep plant run by Stellantis in Toledo, Ohio.
The workers received support from President Joe Biden, who dispatched aides to Detroit to help resolve the impasse and said the Big 3 automakers should share their "record profits."
Union President Shawn Fain says workers could strike at more plants if the companies don't come up with better offers. The workers are seeking across-the-board wage increases of 36 per cent over four years; the companies have countered by offering increases ranging from 17.5 per cent to 20 per cent.
Workers out on the picket lines said they hoped the strikes didn't last long, but added that they were committed to the cause and appreciated Fain's tough tactics.
"We didn't have a problem coming in during COVID, being essential workers and making them big profits," said Chrism Hoisington, who has worked at the Toledo Jeep plant since 2001. "We've sacrificed a lot."
