DETROIT (WWJ) - Around 13,000 United Auto Workers members officially walked off the job when the clock struck midnight on Friday as contract negotiations expired with Detroit's Big Three automakers.
For the first time ever, the UAW is striking Ford, General Motors and Stellantis all at once.
UAW President Shawn Fain on Thursday night called on members at three plants across the Midwest to walk off the job in a "Stand Up Strike" tactic that would strategically hit the automakers in what Fain calls "our generation's defining moment."
The three initial strike targets identified by Fain are:
• GM Wentzville Assembly, Local 2250 (Missouri)
• Stellantis Toledo Assembly Complex, Local 12 (Ohio)
• Ford Michigan Assembly Plant, final assembly and paint only, Local 900 (Michigan)
WWJ's Jeff Gilbert says the three plants make SUVs and pick-up trucks that are already in short supply. The Ford plant in Wayne makes the Bronco and Ranger, while the Jeep plant in Toledo makes the Wrangler and Gladiator and the GM facility in Missouri makes the midsize pickups Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon.
Workers at other locations would continue working under an expired contract, but Gilbert said Fain would call on other locals to go on strike based on what is "happening and bargaining."
Reaction from local and national leaders has been swift with many speaking out in support of the UAW, calling the historic strike "the most American can you can do."
Here are the latest statements released by government officials and industry leaders:
U.S. Sen. Gary Peters
“I stand in solidarity with UAW workers as they strike to fight for a contract that gives them the wages, job security, and benefits they deserve. UAW members made huge sacrifices to help save the auto industry in 2008 and now that the Big Three are making historic profits, the workers deserve to get their fair share of the success. UAW workers are making the best cars in the world in Michigan and it’s critical they continue to be the future of the industry, especially as we transition to electric vehicles.”
U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow
“Our autoworkers are the backbone of the industry. They helped build the middle class in our country and keep our economy strong. They deserve just pay and benefits, job security, and the commitment to be treated as equal partners with our auto companies as they lead the new clean energy economy. I stand with the UAW.”
U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Lansing)
“I stand with the men and women of the UAW who are doing the most American thing you can do: fighting to make sure a hard day’s work means a good life for you and your family. For the last two years, we’ve passed bills to incentivize American manufacturing and bring supply chains home from places like China. But the companies that benefit from these policies need to do right by the workers who make their success possible.
“I’m looking forward to joining our auto workers on the picket line this weekend. For the sake of Michigan’s economy and our working families, I hope this strike is short-lived. As someone who used to negotiate international agreements, I know that no one should let the perfect be the enemy of the good. I hope the UAW and the Big Three continue to negotiate in good faith to reach a fair agreement as quickly as possible.”
U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Waterford Twp.)
“I stand with the men and women on the picket line and urge the automakers to accept a contract that rewards UAW workers for the contributions they’ve made and the profits they’ve built.”
U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Ann Arbor)
“I have said many times these are the most important negotiations I have witnessed in my lifetime. The industry is at a crossroads and its future is at stake. We must manufacture these vehicles here in America to stay at the forefront of innovation and technology and compete in the global marketplace, and the workers are critical to that. There are a lot of important issues at play. The auto workers were the ones who gave when this industry was in trouble over a decade ago, and now they want to see their wages keep up with inflation through cost-of-living adjustments. It's not fair for someone to be a temporary worker for 8-10 years. They deserve a decent wage and benefits, and need to be assured that as the industry undergoes transition, their livelihoods are safe, and they won’t be left behind.”
Michigan Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids)
“The Michigan Senate Democrats stand with the hardworking men and women of the UAW. They are more than just talented and dedicated workers; they are also key contributors to our state’s economic success, and as such, their pay and benefits should reflect the value they bring to their employers and our communities. They have the right to speak up together with one voice, and I support them in using that collective power. “
To those on the picket line: I have your back. When unions are strong, Michigan is strong.”
Michigan House Speaker Joe Tate (D-Detroit)
“Workers are the backbone of the American auto industry, and organized labor is a part of our state’s enduring legacy. Decades of hard work and leadership by unions forged a path to help ensure safe workplaces, competitive wages, and the ability to raise and support a family. They helped make the American dream a reality for generations of Michiganders.
“Michigan’s economy benefits when workers and industry negotiate together, in good faith, to reach consensus. Support for Michigan workers is a top priority for House Democrats, and our legislative accomplishments and agenda are a reflection of our commitment to help build a strong workforce and a thriving economy.
“I encourage a swift resolution to this impasse that delivers a fair contract to the UAW and maintains a competitive edge for the Big Three. The auto industry is Michigan’s legacy and its future, and there is surely a path forward that ensures our workers and our economy can continue to thrive.”
It is not yet clear how long the workers at each of the three plants will remain on strike or when the UAW might call on more facilities to strike.
Fain announced the plans Thursday night from the UAW’s Solidarity House on Detroit’s east side.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned to WWJ LIVE for the latest updates.