The automotive world in the United States is currently shaken by a historic strike led by the American Auto Workers Union. This strike, which began overnight from Thursday to Friday, concerns three major factories and involves around 12,700 employees. This is the largest social movement in the country in decades.
The union, known as the United Auto Workers (UAW), chose to launch the strike simultaneously at a factory of each major American automobile group: General Motors, Stellantis and Ford. This action aims to put pressure on companies to obtain new collective agreements that are more advantageous for workers.
The main sticking points in the negotiations relate to salaries. While the UAW is calling for a 36 percent increase over a four-year period, automakers have only proposed a 20 percent increase. In addition, the union is also demanding additional vacation days and an increase in pensions, demands to which companies have been reluctant.
It is clear that this strike represents a crucial moment for the UAW. Shawn Fain, the union’s president, likens the action to the famous 1936-1937 strike at General Motors in Flint, Michigan, which marked the birth of the UAW. He says the current movement is a major turning point that could redefine the relationship between auto workers and businesses.
The consequences of this strike are not limited only to the companies and workers affected. It could also have an impact on the U.S. economy in general. Consulting firm Anderson Economic Group estimates that a prolonged ten-day strike could result in more than $5 billion in lost revenue for the country.
Additionally, this situation could also have political implications, particularly for President Joe Biden. With presidential elections approaching, he finds himself in a delicate position, needing to support workers while avoiding the damaging effects of a prolonged strike on the economy.
In summary, the strike led by the United Auto Workers in the United States automobile industry is an event of historic significance. Workers’ wage demands and working conditions are at the heart of this movement, which could not only redefine the relationship between workers and businesses, but also have a significant economic and political impact.