“Stellantis and Auto Workers Unite: Tentative Agreement Ends Blockbuster Strike!

The Auto Workers Union (UAW) announced this afternoon that they reached a tentative agreement with Stellantis, ending the strike that had been ongoing since September. The strike had been launched by the UAW to push for better working conditions and pay for its members, as well as those at other major US auto manufacturers. The agreement reached between the UAW and Stellantis is said to include higher wages, better protections for temporary employees, greater savings on health care, improved work safety, and a limited number of new jobs. In return, Stellantis is reportedly getting more flexibility with temporary employees, as well as the chance to switch out of union contracts if certain advancements are not met. The UAW also said that while the agreement is a win for both sides, there are still some points to iron out. They hope to have a finalized version by the end of the month, as both sides want to make sure that the UAW gets the best possible deal. Meanwhile, the organization is still in negotiations with other automakers, as well as the union-represented workers in parts supplies. The agreement also sets up a system to prevent future strikes, by creating regular negotiations between the two sides. This is potentially important as the auto industry is likely to face a labor shortage going forward, so having a process in place to ensure the agreements between workers and employers will be beneficial. Overall, the UAW’s announcement is a major step in the right direction for the auto industry, both in terms of giving workers the pay and benefits they deserve and in aiding prevent any future strikes. It is a hopeful sign that labor and management have found solid ground, and that the auto industry can move forward successfully in 2021.