In a historic victory for workers at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga plant, the United Auto Workers (UAW) finally achieved unionization with a decisive vote of 2,628-985 on Friday. This victory was especially significant as previous UAW elections had fallen short, with results showing only 47% and 48% support.
The UAW needed a simple majority of 50% plus one vote for unionization, and with this latest vote, they have finally reached their goal. Workers at the plant celebrated this momentous occasion, with employees from other right-to-work states attending the watch party in the hopes of similar changes in their own workplaces.
Tennessee Representative Justin Jones and President Joe Biden both showed their support for the workers’ decision, recognizing the significance of this victory for the labor movement. Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp expressed hope that the UAW would learn from this success and work to overcome its reputation for job corruption and losses.
Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly also supported the workers’ choice and expressed his hopes for good faith bargaining between the workers and Volkswagen for the benefit of all parties involved. Volkswagen itself thanked the Chattanooga workers for participating in the election and initiating the bargaining process with the union.
This unionization victory is a major milestone for the workers at the Chattanooga plant and a step towards better working conditions and fair treatment. As the UAW begins negotiations with Volkswagen, there is hope for positive changes and improved relationships between the workers and the company.
