Workers at an automobile plant in Fort Wayne, Indiana, are preparing to go on strike to protest the pay discrepancies between workers doing the same job. The issue boils down to a system that doesn’t offer the same pay across the board. The UAW is standing alongside the workers and has made it clear that it takes these kinds of disparities very seriously.
The current situation is especially galling because it goes against the company’s stated commitment to equality. A portion of the workers, who identify as “agency” or temps, are hired as independent contractors, rather than permanent employees. The cheaper labor allows the company to save on costs, but those at the receiving end don’t see the same wages or protection of those with full-time jobs.
UAW Local 2209 President Kenny Collins expressed the worker’s discontent, saying “We are asking the company to end a system which pays different wages for the same job. We want all of our workers to have equal rights and fair pay for their hard work and dedication. It’s only fair.”
The team of workers has been preparing for a strike since September in order to demand equal pay. Since the issue seems to be headed to a physical standstill, negotiations might be the only option remaining to settle the matter. It’s worth noting that, if an agreement can’t be reached, a local union representative said that a strike could have profound effects on the company.
At the heart of this is a need to ensure that everyone is treated fairly. Paying each for each and every job fairly without any discrepancies is an absolute necessity if we want to ensure that everyone is receiving the respect and compensation they’re due, regardless of skill, background, and even job title. The workers at this plant are taking a stand for what’s right and it’s up to the company to make sure that they get what they deserve.
