UAW Calls for Strike Vote Against Stellantis Over Contract Violations

The United Auto Workers (UAW) is gearing up for potential action against Stellantis, nearly a year after their historic six-week strike. UAW President Shawn Fain announced plans for a strike authorization vote, citing alleged breaches of contract commitments by the automaker.

The UAW, founded in 1935, secured significant wage increases and promises from Stellantis following the 2023 work stoppage. However, the union claims these commitments have not been honored. One key issue is the promised reopening of the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Illinois, which has been operational since 1965.

Fain stated, "We will be holding strike authorization votes at one or more Stellantis locals." He emphasized the union's determination to enforce the contract and protect American jobs, calling for public support.

The situation escalated when Stellantis, formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler and PSA Group, reportedly confirmed plans to relocate Dodge Durango production from Detroit to Canada. This move, according to Fain, violates the contract and threatens thousands of American jobs.

In response to these issues, the UAW has taken formal steps:

• Filing grievances against Stellantis
• Submitting federal labor charges to the National Labor Relations Board
• Requesting meetings with Stellantis leadership (reportedly without success)

The union's actions reflect its commitment to its over 400,000 active members and more than 580,000 retired members across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.

"This will kill thousands of jobs right here in America and it is a flagrant violation of our contract. [Stellantis is] determined to beat down the UAW and devastate the American working class and we will not let them."

The potential strike could be limited to specific union locals or expand to a national level, reminiscent of the 2023 action which was the longest auto strike in 25 years. This dispute highlights ongoing tensions between labor and management in the automotive industry, a sector that has seen significant changes since the UAW's first major strike against General Motors in 1936-1937.

As the situation unfolds, it's worth noting that Stellantis oversees several iconic American brands, including Jeep (created in 1941), Ram Trucks (a standalone brand since 2010), Dodge, and Chrysler (founded in 1925). The outcome of this dispute could have far-reaching implications for the future of American auto manufacturing and labor relations.