In a historic victory for unionization in the South, Volkswagen workers in Chattanooga have overwhelmingly voted to join the United Auto Workers (UAW). This decision gives the UAW a significant foothold in a region that has traditionally been anti-union.
With nearly three quarters of the workers voting in favor of joining the UAW, it was a momentous occasion for the workers at the VW plant. Over 3,600 out of 4,326 eligible workers cast their ballots in support of the union. The victory was met with cheers, hugs, and a visit from UAW president Shawn Fain.
This success comes despite strong opposition from a coalition of six Southern governors, including Tennessee Governor Bill Lee. However, President Joe Biden voiced his support for the workers’ right to form a union in response to the governors’ objections.
The UAW had previously attempted to organize the VW plant in 2013 and 2019 without success. This recent election is part of a larger campaign by the UAW to increase its membership in the South, a region historically resistant to organized labor.
Under the leadership of Shawn Fain, the UAW has experienced a resurgence with successful strikes and new contracts for workers. The union’s ability to organize Southern workers will face another test in May when workers at the Mercedes-Benz plant near Tuscaloosa, Alabama vote on joining the UAW.
Looking ahead, UAW President Shawn Fain expressed optimism for the future, stating, “This is a new day and we’re just getting started.” The significance of this victory for the UAW and organized labor in the South cannot be understated.
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