IAM International President Brian Bryant, along with Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli and Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett, visited striking District 837 members at the Boeing Defense facility in the St. Louis area. The visit took place as the strike by 3,200 IAM members entered its third week.
The union leaders met with workers on the picket line, offering support and encouragement. Their presence was intended to demonstrate union solidarity during ongoing contract negotiations between Boeing Defense and its employees.
During the visit, IAM International President Brian Bryant addressed the workers: “You are sending a powerful message that workers deserve better. Our union will use every resource we have to back you until we win the contract you’ve earned.”
Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli also spoke about the contributions of District 837 members: “I couldn’t be more proud of the strength and solidarity of our IAM District 837 members here in St. Louis. Boeing’s profits don’t happen without you. You deserve a contract that reflects the value of your work, your skills, and your sacrifices.”
Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett highlighted what is at stake for those on strike: “This strike isn’t just about numbers on a page—it’s about respect. Our members are taking a stand for fairness, and our union will not back down until we win the contract they deserve.”
The dispute centers around demands for fair treatment and improved contracts for workers who produce military products at Boeing Defense facilities.
More information on local coverage can be found through KSDK TV News St. Louis (https://www.ksdk.com/article/news/local/union-federal-leaders-joining-boeing-strike/63-ef7bcd5e-2e9c-4fbc-b1c6-cde8c6db36d0) and recent updates from St. Louis Post-Dispatch (https://www.stltoday.com/business/local/boeing-strike-hits-third-week-still-no-deal-with-st-louis-workers/article_234c77d2-ea2a-11ee-ae51-cf62ad57bfa3.html).
