FLUSHING, Mich., Sept. 15, 2023 — The United Auto Workers (UAW) officially went on strike earlier today. With a lack of consensus on negotiations, this is the first time UAW workers have struck simultaneously at all Big Three automakers — about 300,000 Michigan workers are hourly workers connected to the auto industry. The union has been in contract negotiations with the automobile companies fighting for fair pay and better benefits. This strike comes on the heels of others this week, including striking workers at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Ascension Health. State Rep. Jasper R. Martus (D-Flushing) issued the following statement in support of the efforts by Michigan workers:
“This strike is history in the making, and what it’s saying is that Michiganders will stand for all those who deserve a fair wage, safer working conditions and better benefits. Michigan workers deserve the pay and benefits that match their efforts. I stand in solidarity with Michigander workers as they continue to stand for what is equitable for their families and livelihoods.”
House Democrats have a long history of firmly standing in support of hardworking Michigan families, and since gaining majority this year, the lawmakers have made historic strides to uplift the workers who keep Michigan running by repealing anti-worker “right-to-work” laws, re-establishing prevailing wage, restoring collective bargaining rights and helping to keep more money in Michiganders’ pockets.