Demand for Change in the Auto Industry

In the podcast episode, General Motors auto worker Nick Livik discusses the ongoing contract negotiations between the United Auto Workers (UAW) and the big three automakers (Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis). The UAW, after a history of corruption and concessionary contracts, is now demanding an end to wage tiers, the hiring of temps as permanent employees, the restoration of cost-of-living adjustments, and increased pensions for retirees. They are also fighting for the right to strike over plant closures, a reduced workweek with increased productivity, and equal pay for equal work. According to Livik, these demands not only impact UAW members but also have broader implications for America's working class as a whole.