UAW Escalates Historic Strike Against Detroit’s Big Three Automakers, Calling on Members to Strike at 38 Facilities

The United Auto Workers union has escalated its historic strike against Detroit’s Big Three automakers, calling on members to strike at dozens of facilities run by General Motors and Jeep parent company Stellantis on Friday. UAW President Shawn Fain announced the move in a Facebook Live address, saying workers at 38 GM and Stellantis facilities will walk off the job at noon local time.

The strike is in response to what Fain considers the companies’ hard line at the bargaining table, with the union demanding wage increases, job security, and other issues. Notably, the labor group is not targeting Ford for additional strikes, with Fain saying the union is making progress on its demands and that the company “is serious about reaching a deal.”

The strike is taking place across 20 states, and is the first major work stoppage since a two-day strike in 2007. It is also the first strike against GM since a two-day walkout in 1998. The strike has already had an impact on the companies, with GM saying it has lost $1 billion in profits since the work stoppage began.

The UAW’s move to escalate the work stoppage highlights how far the sides remain apart on core union demands. It is unclear how long the strike will last, but both sides remain committed to reaching an agreement. In the meantime, the union is urging its members to remain strong and united in their fight for a fair contract.