Boeing Workers in Missouri and Illinois Initiate Strike Amid Contract Dispute

Strike Action by Boeing Workers

San Francisco, Aug 4: Around 3,200 unionized workers at Boeing in Missouri and Illinois commenced a strike on Monday following a breakdown in contract negotiations with the aerospace giant.

The decision to strike was made after members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 voted against a revised four-year labor agreement proposed by Boeing.

This vote came after a significant rejection of Boeing's earlier proposal on July 27, as the previous labor agreement expired just before midnight.

The striking workers are located at Boeing's facilities in St. Louis and St. Charles, Missouri, and Mascoutah, Illinois, according to reports.

IAM International President Brian Bryant stated, "We will be on the picket lines, making sure Boeing acknowledges the collective strength of the workforce."

Sam Cicinelli, IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President, emphasized that workers deserve a contract that secures their families and acknowledges their exceptional skills.

Jody Bennett, IAM Resident General Vice President, remarked, "Our unity is our power. This vote illustrates that when workers unite, they can resist corporate greed and advocate for a better future for themselves and their families."

The IAM union stands as one of the largest and most diverse industrial trade unions in North America, representing around 600,000 active and retired members across various sectors, including aerospace, defense, and healthcare.

Boeing expressed its disappointment regarding the vote. Dan Gillian, Vice President and General Manager of Boeing Air Dominance, stated that the company was "disheartened that our employees turned down an offer that included an average wage increase of 40 percent and addressed their main concern regarding alternative work schedules."

He added that Boeing was "prepared for a strike and had fully activated our contingency plan to ensure that our non-striking workforce can continue to support our customers."