lang: en
Summary
In 2019, the United Auto Workers (UAW) union led a strike of approximately 49,000 workers against General Motors (GM) across 50 locations in the United States, demanding better pay, job security, and fair treatment. The strike lasted from 15 September to 25 October 2019, and resulted in a new four-year contract that included wage increases, bonuses, and investment commitments from GM.
Tactics used
Tactics used
- boycotts and strikes
- nonviolent direct action
- civil-resistance
- coalition building
- petitions and e campaigning
Background
After the 2008 recession, UAW workers agreed to wage and benefit cuts to help save General Motors from bankruptcy. By 2019, GM had earned $35 billion in North America, but workers still faced low wages and job insecurity, while GM announced plans to close five factories and cut 14,000 jobs.
What happened
On 15 September 2019, after contract negotiations failed, the UAW called a strike, shutting down 33 manufacturing plants and 22 parts warehouses across nine states, with about 49,000 workers walking off the job and forming picket lines [source: nv-database]. GM responded by withdrawing health insurance from striking workers on 17 September, but reversed this decision on 26 September after public backlash [source: nv-database]. The strike received support from the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, who refused to transport GM vehicles, and from Democratic presidential candidates who joined picket lines [source: nv-database]. The strike ended on 25 October 2019 after a new four-year contract was ratified, which included an 7.7 billion in GM investment to create or retain 9,000 jobs [source: nv-database]. As a concession, the UAW agreed to the closure of three plants [source: nv-database].
Key people & organizations
- International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW)
- General Motors
- International Brotherhood of Teamsters
- Elizabeth Warren
- Joe Biden
- Bernie Sanders
- Amy Klobuchar
- Tim Ryan
- Terry Dittes
- Mary Barra
Outcome
Verdict: won.
The UAW achieved 6 out of 6 points for success in specific demands, including wage raises, bonuses, and job security commitments, though three plants were closed as a concession. The strike was the longest since 1998 and demonstrated strong union mobilization. [source: nv-database]
Lessons
- A strike can be effective when combined with broad coalition support from other unions and political allies.
- Withholding health insurance as a response can backfire and increase public sympathy for strikers.
- Clear communication of demands and sustained picketing can maintain pressure during long negotiations.
Sources
Disclaimer: Included as a teaching example of campaign craft, not as endorsement.
Sources & verification
nv-database— grounding: primary — license: link-only- Rewritten: 2026-06-25 via
worker_casestudies_v2.py