IAM International President Brian Bryant, along with Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli and Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett, visited the picket line of District 837 members who are on strike at Boeing Defense in the St. Louis area. The visit aimed to show support for the 3,200 union members currently participating in the strike.
During their time on the picket line, IAM leaders spoke with workers and offered encouragement. The presence of top union officials was intended to demonstrate solidarity within the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). According to union leadership, collective action is a core strength of their organization.
The ongoing strike centers on demands for fair treatment for employees involved in producing military products at Boeing Defense. “You are sending a powerful message that workers deserve better,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Our union will use every resource we have to back you until we win the contract you’ve earned.”
Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli highlighted the importance of workers’ contributions: “I couldn’t be more proud of the strength and solidarity of our IAM District 837 members here in St. Louis,” he said. “Boeing’s profits don’t happen without you. You deserve a contract that reflects the value of your work, your skills, and your sacrifices.”
Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett addressed broader issues beyond financial terms: “This strike isn’t just about numbers on a page—it’s about respect,” Bennett stated. “Our members are taking a stand for fairness, and our union will not back down until we win the contract they deserve.”
The strike has now entered its third week with no agreement reached between Boeing Defense and its St. Louis workforce.
