Many of us are rightfully concerned about what lies ahead as we near the deadline of our contract. We know that a strike may be imminent. Fear, uncertainty, and even anger are natural responses when faced with an unknown future.
However, it is what you do in response to those feelings that can determine that future. As the saying goes, there is no courage without fear. We have the opportunity to inspire others with our courage.
Article 2, Section 1 of the UAW Constitution:
“To improve working conditions, create a uniform system of shorter hours, higher wages, health care and pensions; to maintain and protect the interests of workers under the jurisdiction of this International Union.”
I can think of nothing more unifying than the objects of these ideals. This is what the UAW stands for: to protect the interests of their workers. It does not mean just for these people here, and not those people over there. This is a fight for all workers: including us.
If we give in to fear and division, the opposite of those ideals sets in. We maintain and achieve these goals by facing our uncertainty head on; ignoring those who use the language of fear, or better yet, challenging them to have courage!
Remind them that while we would earn $500/week for strike assistance, as uncomfortable and temporary as it would be, the starting wage at one of GM’s joint-venture battery plants is only $523/week after taxes.
We understand, courage alone is not enough if we are called to strike. We have information and resources on our website (Members>Resources) right now and are adding to it. Myself and Riley Jarvis, our Community Services Committee Chair, are committed to ensuring the good and welfare of the membership - regardless of whether we are called to strike.
If you need support or are uncertain, please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns you are having. You may reach out to either Riley or myself, or use the “Contact Us” form on the Local website and we will address your concerns in a confidential and timely manner.
In Solidarity,
Tom Kelley
President UAW Local 1869
For questions or concerns please contact:
Riley Jarvis - Community Services Committee Chair
rileybinkow@gmail.com
(248) 506-2803
Tom Kelley - President
tomkelley1869@gmail.com
(586) 388.4034