UAW Negotiations Continue as Detroit's Big Three Offer 23% Wage Increase
ICARO Media Group
In an update regarding the ongoing UAW strike, UAW President Shawn Fain discussed the negotiations with Detroit's Big Three - Ford, Stellantis, and General Motors. The announcement, which took place at the UAW's Solidarity House in Detroit, revealed that two of the automakers have presented new offers, signaling progress in the talks.
Fain emphasized the importance of the strike and urged UAW members to continue their protest, emphasizing that the strike is an essential tactic to secure a favorable contract. He stated, "Our ability to hold out, to hit the companies economically, and to withhold our labor, this is our leverage and this is our path to victory." Fain highlighted the solidarity among UAW members, mentioning strikes against other organizations such as Mack Truck, General Dynamics, and Detroit's casino.
Fain reported that both Stellantis and General Motors have shown significant movement in the past 24 hours. However, he criticized Ford and its Executive Chair, Bill Ford, for not meeting the union's expectations. Rejecting the idea of a partnership with Ford, Fain expressed a desire to organize non-union auto companies in the future.
One crucial development mentioned by Fain is that all three automakers - Ford, Stellantis, and General Motors - have agreed to a 23% wage increase over the next four years. This marks a substantial improvement for UAW members, as wage tiers have also been eliminated. Ford has managed to reduce the progression to three years, while both General Motors and Stellantis are currently at four years, down from the initial eight-year timeline.
Additionally, all three companies have offered certain benefits, including granting Juneteenth as a federal holiday and providing two weeks of paid parental leave. GM's latest offer includes a 25% compounded wage increase, the reinstatement of Cost of Living Adjustments, ratification bonuses, and zero healthcare premiums and deductibles for seniority team members. The offer also addresses temporary workers, with wage increases of 26%, profit sharing for those who have worked at least 1,000 hours, and increased company contributions for healthcare and retirement.
However, amidst the ongoing negotiations, some UAW members are growing weary of the strike. Darvin Fletcher, an employee at Ford, expressed his frustration and called for a resolution to get back to work. He mentioned financial struggles, with reduced working hours and a $500 weekly income before taxes.
The strike also brings tensions between UAW workers and non-union employees, as they are affected by the strike despite not participating in the negotiations. A video shared on social media depicted a truck driver threatening protesters in Warren.
As negotiations continue, UAW members and automakers are striving to reach a favorable agreement that addresses the concerns and demands of the union.