Exploring the recent surge of labor union movements in the US, including the auto industry, Hollywood, and UPS. Discussing the impact of strikes, changing public opinion, and challenges faced by new unions at Apple, Amazon, and Starbucks.
Auto workers secure better job security through a targeted strike during the transition to electric vehicles.
Hollywood workers demand fair wages, job security, and guidelines for artificial intelligence in the entertainment industry.
Deep dives
Auto Workers' Strike and New Contract
Auto workers faced challenges due to the transition to electric vehicles and demanded job security and wage increases. After a targeted strike, they reached a tentative deal with major car manufacturers that will provide better job security as the industry moves towards electric vehicles.
Hollywood Workers' Strike for Rights
Hollywood workers, including television and film writers and actors, went on a joint strike amid concerns about the future of their jobs. Their demands focused on job security, fair wages, and guidelines regarding the use of artificial intelligence in the entertainment industry.
UPS Workers and Negotiated Deal
Unlike the previous two strikes, UPS workers were able to avoid a strike and reached a deal before the deadline. Their demands centered around better pay and improved working conditions, such as air conditioning in trucks. They secured significant pay raises without having to go on strike.
In the US, nearly half a million people have gone on strike this year demanding better pay, working conditions and job security. With the FT’s US labour and equality correspondent Taylor Nicole Rogers, we’re zooming in on the strategies that three major labour movements have used in recent months to try and secure new contracts, and whether their efforts could signal a new era of power for unions in America.
On X, follow Taylor Nicole Rogers (@TaylorNRogers) and Michela Tindera (@mtindera07), or follow Michela on LinkedIn for updates about the show and more.