Detroit, Michigan – The President of the United Auto Workers, Shawn Fain, made significant remarks during the union’s National Community Action Program Conference in Washington, D.C. Fain emphasized the crucial role of the government in addressing corporate pension issues and advocated for a transition to electric vehicles. The conference is a platform for hundreds of UAW members to engage in policy discussions and workshops ahead of the presidential election.
Fain expressed the need for the government to step in and support pensions if corporations fail to do so. He highlighted the union’s commitment to representing the working class and urged political leaders to align with their cause. Fain also addressed the issue of security along the southern border, dismissing it as a distraction from more pressing matters such as corporate greed.
The President of UAW described political activism as an extension of the union’s recent achievements in securing favorable contracts with major automakers. While the new contracts delivered substantial wage increases and improved retirement packages, the issue of pension security for all autoworkers remains unresolved. Fain vowed to continue advocating for this cause and suggested that federal intervention might be necessary if the automakers do not guarantee retirement security for their employees.
Fain criticized the divisive nature of identity politics and emphasized the need for unity in addressing the challenges posed by corporate greed. He downplayed the significance of border security as a major issue in the upcoming election, asserting that the real threat to the working class comes from economic inequalities perpetuated by billionaires and politicians.
In addition to addressing pension issues and border security, Fain stressed the importance of a just transition to electric vehicles. Despite potential risks to jobs, Fain advocated for the union’s leadership in promoting environmental safety and sustainability. He emphasized the impact of cleaner energy vehicles on the overall well-being of workers and their communities.