UAW President Calls for Expanded Strike; Urges 7,000 Additional Workers to Join at Noon

UAW President Shawn Fain announced on Friday morning that the union’s strike against major Detroit automakers will expand today at noon, adding 7,000 more workers to the walkout.

Fain expressed that although the UAW is ready to negotiate, both Ford and General Motors have not made significant progress during discussions. However, he noted that negotiations have not completely stalled.

With the inclusion of these additional workers, the total number of UAW members participating in the strike will exceed 25,000, as the action against Ford, GM, and Stellantis enters its third week.

In his speech, Fain encouraged the 7,000 workers to join the movement, urging focus on specific facilities such as a Ford plant in Chicago and a GM facility in Lansing Township, Michigan.

Additionally, he emphasized the support of influential political figures, asserting that “America has our backs.”

The strike began on September 15, coinciding with the expiration of the union’s previous four-year contract, with workers from General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis taking part.

Importantly, the UAW did not choose to extend the strike to Ford distribution centers, citing positive progress in ongoing negotiations with the company.

In mid-day trading on Friday, shares of GM and Ford experienced slight declines of 0.26% and 0.20%, respectively, while shares of Stellantis saw a modest increase of 0.18%.