Strikes

Union supporters and organizers tend to minimize the potential of strikes and work actions — and for good reason.

Strikes can be devastating for the employees who must carry them out. During an economic strike, workers receive no pay. Benefits cease to accrue. States generally do not pay unemployment. And union "strike benefits" — when available — rarely amount to more than $50 per week. Union members are expected to walk picket lines in order to receive these benefits and may also face discipline if they refuse.

While some strikes are brief, others can last weeks, months, or years. Even if a strike results in higher pay, therefore, the money lost by employees who participate in the strike may take years to make up.

In 1995 the United Auto Workers famously abandoned a 17-month strike against Caterpillar. 12,000 workers came back unconditionally — without a contract or any promise of better pay.

In 1998 a UAW strike against General Motors lasted 54 days and idled more than 200,000 workers. Massive layoffs in West Michigan resulted -- with hundred of employees from companies like Johnson Controls and Gentex out of work while the strike was resolved.

In June the UAW held a two-day strike against some JCI plants which pinched GM and Daimler-Chrysler by shutting down production of the TrailBlazer and Jeep Liberty SUVs.

Strikes are a reality for union members.

How Unions Organize