Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Workers at Valley Ford Truck in Ohio reached a three-year contract, ending a strike that began in mid-December. The contract covers 24 workers who are members of the Machinists (IAM) Local 1363. Most of the workers are automotive, light truck or heavy truck technicians, and they went on strike Dec. 18 over workers’ 401(k) retirement plans and being guaranteed a certain number of weekly work hours. The contract includes pay raises and eliminates a two-tier vacation schedule, among other benefits.
“It was a long battle,” said Robert Towslee, the union’s business representative. “We had a lot of support from our union brothers and sisters. Everybody is glad to have this done. They’re anxious to get back to work and put this in the rearview mirror.”