Big developments in the United States today as workers at the 3 biggest auto plants in the country have walked out of their jobs. Attempts to reach a suitable deal for unionized workers ultimately failed.
For the first time in history, all three major US automotive makers are going on strike. Ford; General Motors, and Stellantis have seen some 12,600 employees walk out of their jobs as the strike began today. According to UAW President Shain Fain via a Facebook Live broadcast, employees will be paid about $500 a week from the union’s $825m fund.
Thus is the first time all three have joined together to strike.
Here are UAW’s demands that are not being met (as of yet)
- Workers are demanding a 36% pay increase over a four-year contract term.
- Less use of temporary workers.
- A four day work week.
- Pension benefits for all employees
- Additional job protections include the right to strike when plants close.
- More paid time off.
No new negotiations are expected today but potential weekend talks are likely according to the same Facebook live video.