Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 have rejected Boeing’s latest contract proposal after 79 days on strike. The union’s bargaining committee met with Boeing and federal mediators over the past two days, but described the company’s five-year offer as “nothing short of disrespectful.”
According to the IAM District 837 statement, “The company made an offer that had no meaningful improvements in the areas our members have told us and the company they care about – retirement security, ratification bonus and top-of-scale wage growth. The company has insisted on a fifth year, despite adding no additional value to the fifth year.”
The union also criticized Boeing’s proposed “return to work” agreement, which would allow managers and non-union workers to perform union members’ jobs for the first 30 days after returning. The proposal also included a provision to terminate any member who does not immediately return to work. The union called this “absolutely unacceptable,” noting that many members have taken other jobs during the strike.
IAM District 837 emphasized that its members previously passed a pre-ratified offer in September, which they believe provides Boeing with assurance of employee approval and a clear way to end the strike. The union said, “Instead, Boeing continues to ignore that proposal and the voices of its own employees.”
Highlighting the significance of their work, the union stated, “This isn’t ‘Midwest Manufacturing,’ our members build the most advanced military aircraft in the world – the aircraft and military systems that keep our servicemembers and allies safe. These are not replaceable jobs. Our members deserve to be treated with the same respect and value that Boeing gives to every part of the so-called ‘One Boeing’ family the company always talks about.”
The statement concluded by referencing comments made on Capitol Hill: “As we heard today on Capitol Hill, Boeing’s greed and disdain for the very employees who make its success possible is on full display. It’s long past time for Boeing to show some respect for its workforce and come to the table with a reasonable offer that recognizes your skill, dedication and experience, as well as the value you bring to this company and our nation.”
Union leadership encouraged members to remain united: “Stay strong and stay united on the picket line. Together, we will continue to fight for the fair contract you deserve.”
