UAW President Shawn Fain will address union members and the public via Facebook Live at 2 p.m. today for what has been touted as a “Stand Up announcement.” This change in time from the usual 10 a.m. Friday presentations was noted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, by the UAW on Thursday. The specifics of the announcement remain closely guarded.
Historically, during the ongoing strike against the Detroit Three automakers, Fain’s Friday presentations have been moments where the union communicates the expansion of their Stand Up Strike strategy. This unique approach involves different automotive facilities being selected for strike action each week based on the progression of negotiations with the automakers.
A representative for the UAW has refrained from giving more information about the nature of today’s announcement. However, according to Detroit Freep, an individual with knowledge of Fain’s ongoing discussions mentioned that this change in timing is solely due to scheduling. This source also hinted at Fain possibly presenting “substantive bargaining updates.” Whether or not there will be announcements concerning further strike expansions remains uncertain.
It’s worth noting that the union has made it clear that any new bargaining details or offers will likely remain undisclosed until Fain’s presentation. This move allows Fain to ensure that members hear updates directly from him, providing a firsthand perspective.
This anticipated announcement comes in the wake of the UAW receiving its sixth contract offer from General Motors. Since September 14, when contract talks stalled and the previous contract lapsed, Fain has been resolute in his stance, initiating a strike targeting the Detroit Three’s assembly plants. The impact of this decision has been palpable, with two subsequent extensions of the strike to more facilities affiliated with Detroit’s big three auto firms.
A reflection of the escalation came last week when Fain instructed approximately 2,300 union members at GM’s Lansing Delta Township Assembly plant to commence strike action. In a further move, workers at Ford Motor Co.’s Chicago Assembly were also beckoned to join the strike line. However, Stellantis emerged as an exception in Fain’s directive after presenting a last-minute offer, an action Fain lauded as a symbol of tangible progress.
The financial ramifications of the strike are becoming evident. On Wednesday, General Motors released a statement estimating a loss of $200 million in third-quarter revenue due to the strike. Furthermore, GM sought additional credit upwards of $6 billion, anticipating a potential continuation or escalation of labor-related disruptions. The ripple effect of the strike has also been felt by GM and Ford, with both giants laying off thousands due to strike-induced plant closures.
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