IAM District 751 in Washington State has donated $32,000 to the strike fund of IAM District 837 to support workers on strike against Boeing in St. Louis. The donation highlights the ongoing solidarity within the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) as members seek a fair contract.
The strike began on August 4, and since then, various unions, public officials, and community groups have shown their support for the workers. Jon Holden, President and Directing Business Representative of IAM District 751, said, “District 837 members are standing up for the respect and dignity every Boeing worker deserves. Our members in the Pacific Northwest know firsthand the power of solidarity. This contribution is about standing shoulder to shoulder with our union family in St. Louis. Boeing can afford to do the right thing, and it’s time they come to the table and bargain in good faith.”
Holden previously led over 30,000 IAM members through a 53-day strike against Boeing in 2024 that resulted in significant improvements for workers in his region. He visited St. Louis earlier this month to join strikers at a rally and deliver the donation personally.
IAM District 837 members decided to strike after failing to reach an agreement with Boeing regarding better terms that recognize their skills and contributions to national defense projects. Negotiations are still underway with federal mediation.
Tom Boelling, President and Directing Business Representative of IAM District 837, stated, “Our members are proud of the work they do building critical aerospace and defense products. We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support from District 751 and the entire IAM family. Together, we’re sending a clear message: when one of us is under attack, we all stand together.”
The IAM Strike Fund is available on goIAM.org for those wishing to assist striking members financially. The fund accepts donations from union members as well as families, friends, and supporters from other labor organizations.
The IAM continues to encourage further contributions from other locals and allies to help sustain striking workers until a resolution is reached.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represents about 600,000 active and retired members across North America in industries such as aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroads, transit systems, healthcare services, automotive manufacturing, among others.
