Following successful negotiations with the Detroit Three automakers, the Detroit-based UAW has announced simultaneous organising efforts at 13 non-union automakers, including Tesla, Toyota, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Rivian, Nissan, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.
Organising Drive and Targets
The UAW’s ambitious organising drive encompasses nearly 150,000 workers employed at U.S. assembly plants of the targeted automakers. This move comes in the wake of the UAW’s recent contract agreements with General Motors, Ford Motor, and Stellantis, which included significant concessions, such as a 25% increase in base wages through 2028 and improved conditions for temporary workers.
UAW President’s Call to Auto Workers
UAW President Shawn Fain, in a video posted on a dedicated website, urged auto workers without union benefits to join the movement. Fain emphasised the financial viability of the endeavour, stating, “The money is there. The time is right. You don’t have to worry about how you’re going to pay your rent or feed your family while the company makes billions. A better life is out there.”
Organising Strategy and Response
The UAW outlined its organising strategy, indicating that if 30% of workers at a nonunion plant express interest in joining, it would make this public. At 50%, the UAW plans to hold a rally with Fain to showcase the effort, and at 70%, with an organising committee in place, the union would seek recognition or demand a union representation vote.
Industry Response and Tesla CEO’s Stance
Tesla CEO Elon Musk responded to the UAW’s efforts by stating, “I disagree with the idea of unions.” He added that if Tesla becomes unionised, it would be because the company deserved it and failed in some way. Tesla, as the world’s largest electric vehicle maker by market value, is a primary target of the UAW’s organising efforts.
Targeted Automakers and Union Statements
Other automakers in the UAW’s crosshairs include Honda, Subaru, Mazda, Lucid, and Volvo Cars. While Honda expressed scepticism about union representation at its U.S. plants, Subaru emphasised its commitment to providing an excellent employment experience for associates. Toyota, Rivian, and Volkswagen declined to comment at the time of the report.
Political Support and Industry Landscape
U.S. President Joe Biden has expressed support for the UAW’s efforts, stating, “I want this type of contract for all auto workers, and I have a feeling the UAW has a plan for that.” The UAW’s push comes as foreign automakers respond to its contracts with the Detroit Three by announcing significant pay and compensation improvements, potentially to dissuade the UAW from entering their plants.
Seizing the Moment
Harley Shaiken, a labour professor at the University of California, Berkeley, acknowledged the challenges but noted a more positive environment with strong deals in place, increased public favorability toward unions, and White House support. The UAW’s organising site emphasises criticisms of corporate profits and CEO pay, urging workers to join the movement for fair compensation.