The Chattanooga Area Central Labor Council Congratulates the UAW 42!

“The Future of the South Is Union Strong!”: Chattanooga’s Unions Celebrate Volkswagen Workers Contract Victory

Chattanooga Area Labor Council President Geoffrey Meldahl issued the following statement on UAW members’ successful contract ratification vote at Volkswagen:

“The Chattanooga Area Labor Council congratulates Volkswagen workers on their historic contract ratification vote. The bravery and unity that every single United Autoworker (UAW) member has shown, even in the face of intimidation and threats, is nothing short of inspiring. 

“For too long, massive billion-dollar corporations have seen the South as somewhere they can get away with paying poverty wages for the back-breaking labor that makes their profits possible. This victory in Chattanooga is a homegrown movement of working people standing up to demand the respect and dignity they deserve. It is undeniable proof that we are truly stronger together.

“The powerful wage increases, healthcare improvements, increased time off, workplace safety provisions and job security protections that Volkswagen workers fought for will help them build a brighter future for themselves and their families. But the impact of this contract doesn’t stop at the factory floor—good union jobs raise standards across entire communities, benefiting our local economy and proving that Tennessee workers have the power to change their lives for the better.

“This is just the beginning. No more business as usual. Working people are sick and tired of begging for scraps to keep their lights on while the richest of the rich buy themselves yet another mega yacht. The future of the south is union strong!”