IAM International President Brian Bryant, along with Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli and Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett, visited the picket line in the St. Louis area to support District 837 members who are on strike at Boeing Defense. The visit aimed to show solidarity and support for the approximately 3,200 IAM members participating in the strike.
The ongoing labor action centers on demands for fair treatment and a contract that reflects the value of workers who produce advanced military products for Boeing Defense. The union leaders spent time talking with members on the line, offering encouragement and reaffirming their commitment to supporting the striking workers.
“You are sending a powerful message that workers deserve better,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Our union will use every resource we have to back you until we win the contract you’ve earned.”
IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli also addressed those on strike: “I couldn’t be more proud of the strength and solidarity of our IAM District 837 members here in St. Louis. Boeing’s profits don’t happen without you. You deserve a contract that reflects the value of your work, your skills, and your sacrifices.”
Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett added: “This strike isn’t just about numbers on a page—it’s about respect. Our members are taking a stand for fairness, and our union will not back down until we win the contract they deserve.”
The strike has now entered its third week with no agreement reached between Boeing Defense and its St. Louis workforce (https://www.stltoday.com/business/local/boeing-strike-hits-third-week-still-no-deal-with-st-louis-workers/article_7e67d26a-483c-11ef-b8a6-c7ad68b39fa5.html). Union representatives continue to emphasize that worker unity is key in their efforts toward securing improved terms.
Federal officials have also joined local union leaders in showing support at the picket lines (https://www.ksdk.com/article/news/local/union-federal-leaders-boeing-strike-picket-line-st-louis/63-84186c41-e032-4ae2-ae1b-dbe49e012ac6), highlighting national attention on this dispute over worker conditions at one of America’s major defense contractors.
