Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 have rejected a recent contract offer from Boeing, describing it as “nothing short of disrespectful.” The union, which represents workers in St. Louis, has been on strike for 79 days, seeking improvements in retirement security, ratification bonuses, and wage growth.
According to a statement from the IAM Union Bargaining Committee, negotiations with Boeing were held through federal mediators over the past two days. The committee criticized Boeing’s five-year proposal for lacking meaningful progress in key areas important to members.
The union also raised concerns about the proposed “return to work” agreement. The statement said the company wants managers and non-union employees to perform union members’ jobs for the first 30 days after returning to work. It also objects to a provision that would terminate any member who does not immediately return, noting that many have taken other jobs during the strike.
“We’ve said it many times, and we’ll say it again: we will not vote on an insulting offer,” the committee stated.
IAM District 837 emphasized that its members had previously approved a pre-ratified offer in September, which they believe would have provided a path to end the strike. The union accuses Boeing of ignoring this proposal and disregarding employee voices.
The statement highlighted the specialized nature of their work: “This isn’t ‘Midwest Manufacturing,’ our members build the most advanced military aircraft in the world – the aircraft and military systems that keep our servicemembers and allies safe. These are not replaceable jobs.”
It also referenced discussions in Congress: “As we heard today on Capitol Hill, Boeing’s greed and disdain for the very employees who make its success possible is on full display.”
The union urged its members to remain united: “Stay strong and stay united on the picket line. Together, we will continue to fight for the fair contract you deserve.”
