Solidarity: IAM and Boeing
Contract negotiations between the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) and the Boeing Company have resulted in a strike that began at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, September 2, 2005.
In response to Boeing's proposed massive economic cuts and meager pension benefit increases, the nearly 18,500 workers in Portland, Oregon, Wichita, Kansas and Washington state rejected the company's final offer and voted to take strike action.
IAM International President, Tom Buffenbarger pointed out that "Boeing's profits have tripled in the past three years and the company has a large backlog of new aircraft orders." Buffenbarger also noted that Boeing's final offer amounted to "little more than an invitation to strike."
Describing Boeing's proposals as "insulting" and "substandard offers that refuse to address workers' top issues - pensions, health care and job security," IAM negotiators called on the workers to remain strong on the picket line. Despite efforts by Boeing to split the IAM membership, the
Boeing strikers remain focused on their solidarity with each other and steadfast in their resolve.
Please find below a model letter you might consider sending in support of the IAM striking workers at Boeing. Please e-mail or fax copies of any letters you sent to:
oherrnstadt@iamaw.org or fax to the IAM at U.S. 301-967-3432. A model letter is set out below, for your convenience.
MODEL LETTER
R. Thomas Buffenbarger
International President
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
9000 Machinists Place
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
Dear Brother Buffenbarger:
We stand in solidarity with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) as its members walk the picket lines in their strike against the Boeing Company.
As one of the richest multinational companies in the world, Boeing must understand that its shabby treatment of IAM members in the United States is not condoned by workers in other countries.
We are well aware of Boeing's failure to submit an acceptable offer to the IAM in its negotiations and we demand that it do so immediately. We will stand beside you until an equitable and fair agreement is reached.
Again, we send our best wishes and solidarity to all IAM members on strike at Boeing.
You will succeed.
In solidarity, etc.
