Aerospace Machinists District 751 President Jon Holden announced on September 12, 2024, that union members have rejected a proposed Boeing contract and will go on strike. This followed voting results at their union hall in Seattle, Washington. More than 30,000 union members are walking off the job, reflecting resentment among workers over concessions made in past talks, including the loss of pension benefits a decade ago, which the union sought to reinstate.
The proposed contract, agreed upon by union leaders and company management after months of negotiations, included several gains for workers but fell short of the union’s initial demands. The rejection of the proposal on Thursday led to the strike. The deal included a 25 percent raise over four years, a $3,000 ratification bonus for each union member, increased annual contributions to the union’s 401(k) plan, more health care coverage, 12 weeks of paid parental leave, and reduced mandatory overtime.
The strike started at 12:01 a.m. PDT on a Friday, less than three hours after the local branch of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers announced the voting results. In response, Boeing expressed its commitment to resetting its relationship with employees and the union and stated its readiness to continue negotiations on a new labor contract. The last Boeing strike, in 2008, lasted 50 days and was the longest at Boeing since a 10-week walkout in 1995.
The company has a substantial role in the U.S. economy, employing nearly 150,000 people across the country and is one of the nation’s largest exporters. It manufactures commercial aircraft, military jets, rockets, spacecraft, and Air Force One. Holden stated that members are prepared to “stay out” as long as necessary to secure a better deal this time.
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