In a major action by auto workers at the Big Three automakers in the United States, employees of Ford, GM, and Chrysler have gone on strike. The United Auto Workers union began the historic labor walkout on September 15, 2019, in the Detroit, Michigan area.
The primary cause for the strike is a demand for better wages, improved working conditions, and job security for the more than 46,000 members of the union. The workers are attempting to gain improved pay for temp and part-time staffers, secure affordable health insurance, and a path to permanent employment.
In recent months, the Big Three have seen increased profits due to a strong economy and high demand for cars and trucks. This fuels the auto workers demand to share more directly in the success of the companies.
As the strike continues, many of the Big Three auto plants have temporally ceased operations. Production has stopped amidst picket lines and angry but determined workers.
The strike by the UAW union could have major implications. Some analysts believe the Big Three could lose up to $800 million in profits for each day the strike continues. The ripple effect of the lost production could spread to other industries that rely on car parts from the automakers such as paint, plastics and software suppliers.
The battle wages on as workers of Ford, GM, and Chrysler continue to strike for improved working conditions. Whether the Big Three will agree to the demands of the workers remains to be seen. Only time will tell how this historic labor dispute will end.
