BlueOval SK Workers Demand Ford Recognize Union and Negotiate Future

On Wednesday, a significant move unfolded as over 1,000 BlueOval SK employees submitted a petition at Ford Motor Company's Elizabethtown corporate offices. The petition demands that Ford acknowledge the union and engage in negotiations concerning the future operations of the facility.

In a pivotal decision last August, workers cast their votes in favor of unionizing the joint venture located in Kentucky. Despite months of opposition from the company challenging the election results, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) ruled against these challenges. This December verdict confirmed the legitimacy of the union and mandated its recognition by BlueOval SK. Coinciding with these events, over 1,600 workers were notified of their impending job terminations set for February 14.

Laura Dickerson, Vice President of the UAW’s Ford Department, expressed her sentiments, stating, “It’s time for Ford to do the right thing by BlueOval SK workers, recognize the union, and sit down to negotiate the future of Glendale.” She highlighted the long-standing relationship between UAW and Ford, emphasizing the union's commitment to defending the affected workers' rights.

Quality Operator Brittany Diprisco, an employee in Cell Assembly at the plant, shared her perspective: “We voted for a union at BlueOval SK because we wanted to have a voice. That fight hasn’t changed. This is still about coming together with our coworkers to have a say in our future.”

Tim Smith, Director of UAW Region 8, declared, “Despite this company fighting hard to undermine the results of the workers’ union election, when it was all said and done, the Board ruled in our favor. These workers are UAW members – end of story. It’s time for Ford to meet with us to negotiate the future of this plant in Glendale. Who are we? U-A-W!”

Amidst over $250 million in state subsidies, both employees and community advocates urge Ford to honor its commitment to providing solid and sustainable employment opportunities, as initially promised during Kentucky's decision to fund the Glendale facility with taxpayer dollars.

Visuals from the petition delivery are accessible to the media here.