In the ongoing UAW strike, there has been substantial progress in negotiations between the United Auto Workers (UAW) and automakers Stellantis and General Motors (GM). UAW leader Shawn Fain provided a weekly update during a live stream, highlighting the developments, criticizing Ford's stance, and emphasizing the need for more favorable outcomes in the contract talks.

Fain noted that significant movement has been observed from both Stellantis and GM in the past 24 hours. Fain applauded the increased financial offers made by the two automakers, while also mentioning the absence of any additional plant walk-outs during this time. Fain attributed this progress to the understanding that there would be serious consequences if the companies did not respond adequately.

However, Fain emphasized that the UAW is not settling for "record contracts." While acknowledging the record contract offers received during the strike, he argued that these offers are not enough. Fain highlighted the decades of decline experienced by autoworkers and stressed the importance of reaching a higher standard. He expressed his disappointment that the offers made by the companies are always hailed as the best, only to be overshadowed by new records a few days later. Fain asserted that there is still room for further improvements.

Fain shared the demands of the UAW, which include significant double-digit pay raises, elimination of wage tiers, wage progression, cost-of-living adjustments, enhanced profit sharing, an end to the abuse of temporary workers, improved job security, better work-life balance, and retirement security for all members.

Providing a breakdown of the offers made by the three companies, Fain listed the proposals from Ford, GM, and Stellantis. Ford's offer includes a 23% pay increase over four and a half years, eliminating wage tiers, a three-year wage progression, restoration of cost-of-living adjustments, improved profit sharing for certain employees, and increased company contributions to 401(k) and pension benefits.

GM's offer features a similar 23% pay increase over four and a half years, elimination of wage tiers, a three-year wage progression for current workers and a four-year progression for future hires, approaching restoration of cost-of-living adjustments, maintaining the current profit sharing formula, conversion of certain temporary employees to full-time, increased company contributions to 401(k), and a $4 increase to pension benefits.

Stellantis' offer includes a four-year wage progression, deficient cost-of-living adjustments, maintaining the current profit sharing formula, conversion of certain temporary employees to full-time, and increased wages for remaining and future temporary workers.

Fain expressed concern over GM's two-tiered wage progression and their unwillingness to grant the right to strike over plant closures. He also criticized Stellantis for their four-year wage progression and the rejection of increases to retiree pay.

Despite the progress made with Stellantis and GM, Fain highlighted Ford's lack of response to their demands. He accused Ford of waiting around and prioritizing Wall Street over the needs of UAW employees.

The UAW strike continues, and Fain emphasized the importance of solidarity among the workers. He acknowledged that the final stages of negotiations are often the most challenging, as there is an aggressive push to secure the best possible deal. Fain reiterated the UAW's commitment to unity in the face of the automakers' attempts to divide and create uncertainty.

Ford responded to Fain's update, acknowledging that their offer is already a record and remains the best on the table. They expressed eagerness to reach a contract that improves the lives of UAW employees and ensures a strong future for everyone.

Stellantis commented on the ongoing negotiations, stating that they have been productive and focused on reaching agreements that offer immediate financial gains and job security for their employees.

The UAW strike, now in its fifth week, continues to impact the automotive industry. Further updates on negotiations will be provided as they become available.

Watch Shawn Fain's full update here.