this post was submitted on 21 Sep 2023
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Work Reform

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The Big Three automakers stalled production and moved parts out of plants across the country ahead of the strike, according to rank-and-file UAW members.

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[–] Sunforged 82 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago) (8 children)

The strategy the UAW is currently employing is led by the union’s new militant president, Shawn Fain. He was elected in March after the UAW changed its election process from a delegate system to one member, one vote in the most recent leadership election. He has assumed a new posture for the union’s leadership: for example, refusing to endorse Joe Biden for president until he supports the UAW’s efforts to unionize electric vehicle facilities, and rejecting a ceremonial handshake with auto manufacturer bosses before the start of contract negotiations.

In the critical swing state of Michigan, where tens of thousands of UAW members work, the union holds an outsized influence over state politics and, in turn, nationwide races. That means union support will be crucial for Biden’s reelection chances in 2024. Capitalizing on the Biden administration’s tepid support for the UAW strike, Donald Trump announced he would speak to autoworkers this month, drawing condemnation from Fain.

So fucking good. Need this militant take in the labor movement to spread like wildfire.

[–] Brunbrun6766 17 points 1 year ago (7 children)

My only question is, if not supporting Biden what would they then suggest? Not voting? Because voting for the other guy, you may as well disband your union now

[–] Sunforged 47 points 1 year ago (4 children)

You understand what an endorsement is right?

Political power is not maintained by just giving it away in return for nothing, i.e. the union loses power by just endorsing Biden without Biden showing his support of the union.

Any organization should withhold endorsements if neither candidate represents their best interests. That is a strong indication that the political parties need to run better candidates. That kind of political pressure isn't as prevalent as it needs to be and I am happy to see UAW applying it.

[–] [email protected] 10 points 1 year ago (1 children)

There's no reason there couldn't be a Union party.

[–] Sunforged 15 points 1 year ago

You're absolutely right. We are actually building a workers party right now Workers Strike Back. You should sign up to show support and see if we have any organization near you.

It's been an exciting week, last Thursday our show On Strike! launched, covering the labor news mainstream media refuses to cover honestly. And a suprise second episode released today covering the UAW strike, really happy to see coverage and analysis happen with such turnaround.

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