The United Auto Workers (UAW) achieved a significant victory at a Volkswagen plant in Tennessee, winning 73% of the vote after previous unsuccessful elections. This marks the union’s first win in a Southern assembly plant owned by a foreign automaker, giving hope that the UAW can expand its presence in the South. The UAW president praised the efforts of the organizers and expressed confidence in carrying the fight to other automakers in the region, such as Mercedes-Benz.
Despite the success at VW, the UAW is likely to face a more challenging battle at two Mercedes-Benz plants in Alabama, where aggressive anti-union tactics have been reported. The union has accused the German carmaker of violating labor laws, leading to a heated campaign ahead of the upcoming election. Labor experts believe that the UAW will encounter more resistance at sites like Mercedes-Benz, reflecting a deeper challenge in the traditionally less unionized Southern states.
The UAW has announced plans to represent nearly 150,000 workers at non-union factories in the South, targeting major automakers and electric vehicle manufacturers. The union’s recent win at VW in Chattanooga comes as a turnaround after a previous defeat amid corruption investigations. By leveraging new leadership, successful contracts with Detroit automakers, and a more favorable union climate, the UAW aims to build on its momentum and secure favorable contracts for workers.
The UAW victory in Tennessee has inspired other industries to pursue organizing campaigns in the South, drawing inspiration from the union’s playbook. The Association of Flight Attendants, for example, is seeking to organize cabin crews at Delta Air Lines after witnessing the UAW’s success. President Biden congratulated the UAW on their victory, highlighting the role of unions in securing better contracts for workers and expanding the middle class. Biden criticized Southern Republican governors who warned autoworkers against union representation, citing recent layoffs at nonunion companies.
The success of the UAW in the South challenges longstanding beliefs about organizing in the region and serves as a catalyst for rethinking negative perceptions. Workers across various industries may be inspired to pursue union representation following the UAW’s victory at VW. The union’s ability to quickly translate authorization cards into votes and secure beneficial contracts will be crucial in maintaining momentum and expanding its presence in the South. Overall, the UAW’s win at Volkswagen signals a potential shift in the labor landscape of the Southern states, with implications for workers and industries beyond the automotive sector.
