Volkswagen Workers Secure Historic Union Win in the South - UAW

Tennessee Volkswagen Workers Secure Historic Union Win

CHATTANOOGA, TENN. — The majority of Volkswagen workers in Chattanooga have made history by voting to join the UAW, becoming the first Southern autoworkers outside of the Big Three to secure their union. The results can be confirmed here.

Kelcey Smith, a Volkswagen paint department worker, expressed the monumental nature of this victory, "We stood up and won despite those who said it couldn't happen in Chattanooga. This is proof that Southern workers are ready for change."

Zachary Costello, a trainer in VW’s proficiency room, explained the motivation behind their vote, "The rights, benefits, and improved pay UAW members enjoy at the Big Three sparked our desire for the union. Once workers see the difference a union makes, it's unstoppable.”

Doug Snyder, a body worker at Volkswagen, reiterated the wider implications of their vote, "Our decision symbolizes the aspirations of every American blue-collar worker. Beyond fair pay, we want quality family time and a safe working environment. We anticipate fruitful negotiations with the company towards a fair contract."

Following this landmark victory, 5,000 Mercedes-Benz workers in Vance, Ala., will cast their vote to join the UAW from May 13 to 17. In view of the recent Stand Up Strike victory at the Big Three, over 10,000 non-union autoworkers have signed union cards, with public campaigns at Mercedes, Volkswagen, Hyundai in Montgomery, Ala., and Toyota in Troy, Mo. Workers at over two dozen other facilities are also actively organizing. Get more information here.