Amidst recent triumphs in labor negotiations with Detroit’s car giants, the United Auto Workers (UAW) is launching an audacious campaign targeting all nonunion auto manufacturers across the US. This groundbreaking effort spans multiple states, aiming to unionize thousands of workers at more than a dozen nonunion automakers.

The UAW’s initiative, which covers nearly 150,000 autoworkers, has commenced with workers signing up through the UAW.org/join website. The organizing process outlined by the UAW involves steps from forming worker committees to public rallies and, ultimately, formal demands for union recognition.

UAW President Shawn Fain, in a video shared before its public release, stressed the benefits of union membership, particularly highlighting the recent gains secured by UAW workers at Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis.

The video also spotlighted the profits reported by various automakers, emphasizing that workers deserve a significant share of these record profits. This organizing effort has already gained traction, with strong interest reported among workers in several regions.

Despite past unsuccessful attempts, the UAW’s focus on nonunion factories, particularly in states with “right-to-work” laws, has rattled automakers. Responding to the UAW’s success with the Detroit automakers, several nonunion manufacturers have raised wages, signaling concerns about the UAW’s growing influence.

While these pay hikes from nonunion automakers such as Toyota, Hyundai, and Honda were notable, UAW officials stress that these workers still lag significantly behind unionized counterparts in terms of wages, benefits, and workplace rights.

The UAW’s push for unionization has gained momentum, especially at Toyota’s Kentucky facility, where workers remain determined despite recent wage increases. Workers’ voices echo the sentiment that a union contract is the only path to fair working conditions amidst concerns about health benefits and overall job satisfaction.

Despite inquiries, automakers like Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai remained tight-lipped on the UAW’s organizing efforts. Meanwhile, other automakers emphasized their commitment to their workforce’s well-being.

This extensive organizing endeavor by the UAW marks an unprecedented effort, reflecting a renewed phase of worker empowerment and collective action in the American automotive industry.