GM Strike: The power of UAW solidarity is displayed across generations
The Holy Spirit of Solidarity compelled Jake, a 43-year UAW member, and General Motors worker, to go out onto the picket line. Well, that, and his upcoming retirement on Jan. 1, 2020.
“We’ve got to make sure we leave something good behind for the next generation,” he said, head looking down, hands cupped around the small yellow flame about to light his cigarette.
“We’re making history here, I suppose… If not, it’ll still be a good story to tell the grandchildren.”
He paused, visible exhaustion written across each wrinkle and line on his face, as he took a slow drag of burning tobacco.
“I’ll be happy when this is all over…happy and content, retired in Florida with my wife,” he continued. “But don’t get me wrong, I’m glad we stayed out on strike after they reached a tentative agreement. It was smart; lets GM know we mean business this time around.”
Outside the Flint Truck Assembly plant — the only main GM plant now — around 20 UAW members watched as the sun began to set. Their picket line shifts would end within the hour, and thoughts of cold beer and the…
