More than 3,200 members of IAM District 837 are continuing their strike at Boeing Defense in the St. Louis area, with support from union allies across the labor movement. The strike began on August 4 after contract negotiations between the union and Boeing stalled.
IAM District 837 has submitted a four-year contract proposal that was ratified by its membership, placing responsibility for resolving the dispute on Boeing.
During a recent rally in support of the striking workers, IAM International President Brian Bryant addressed Boeing directly: “I’m here to tell Boeing: you are not just fighting 3,200 workers. You are fighting 600,000 IAM Union members across North America,” said Bryant. “You are fighting millions more across the labor movement. And you are fighting a community that will never be broken!”
The striking workers build and maintain F-15 and F/A-18 aircraft as well as advanced missile and defense systems considered important for U.S. national security. Labor leaders have argued that Boeing’s refusal to negotiate a fair contract affects both worker livelihoods and military readiness.
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler stated: “We’re seeing this everywhere, and it’s called corporate greed. These are attacks on our dignity,” said Shuler. “If Boeing can afford to give $100 million in golden parachutes to failed CEOs, then they can afford to pay your workers a fair share of the wealth we create.”
IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli added: “Every picket line, picket sign, and every hour we hold this line is a message to everyone in this country that – we will not be silenced, we will not be divided, and we will not back down!” Cicinelli emphasized ongoing support from regional unions.
IAM Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett recognized the contributions of union members: “You build the F-15. You build the F/A-18. You’re going to build the F-47. You build the systems that defend this nation,” said Bennett. “That is world-class work. And world-class work deserves world-class respect!”
The rally was hosted by Tom Boelling, Directing Business Representative for IAM District 837, with participation from other labor leaders including Jon Holden (President of IAM District 751), Jake Hummel (President of Missouri AFL-CIO), Patrick Kellett (President of St. Louis Labor Council), and John Dimas (President of SPEEA). Each expressed continued solidarity with striking workers.
Support continues from local unions, elected officials, and community groups who say St. Louis workers should receive equal respect and benefits as other Boeing employees nationwide.
