Striking Boeing Machinists Demand Private Negotiations, Reject Public Talks

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), representing over 30,000 striking Boeing machinists, has called on the company to cease negotiating contract terms publicly. The union insists that any resolution must occur directly at the bargaining table, rejecting Boeing’s attempts to rally external support for what workers consider an inadequate contract offer.

In a recent update, the IAM emphasized, “Our members stand strong, and we remain ready to continue mediated or direct negotiations with Boeing. The only way to resolve this strike is through negotiations, and rest assured, your Union will not bargain through the media.” This statement underscores the union’s commitment to confidential discussions, free from public and media interference.

Boeing recently presented a “best and final” contract proposal, including a 30% wage increase. However, this offer falls short of the 40% raise the IAM had been seeking. The strike was initiated after workers voted against a previous contract offering a 25% raise, highlighting their demand for better compensation.

Amidst Boeing’s efforts to recover from the 737 Max door plug blowout scandal, the company relies on the continued labor of its machinists to maintain production levels and address quality control issues. Despite Boeing’s claims of transparency in sharing the contract offer with employees, the IAM criticized the move as a “blatant show of disrespect,” arguing that publicizing the offer undermines the negotiation process.

Furthermore, IAM surveys revealed overwhelming dissatisfaction with Boeing’s latest proposal. “The survey results from yesterday were overwhelmingly clear, almost as loud as the first offer: members are not interested in the company’s latest offer that was sent through the media,” the union stated. This sentiment reinforces the IAM’s stance that meaningful negotiations must remain private and focused on achieving a fair agreement for its members.

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