That’s what union organizing and solidarity means: Even when we aren’t able to achieve our ultimate goal—even when we face something really tough—we stand together.
L-1622 members Dave Pratt, left, and Marc Thompkins take a shift on the picket line.
The Local 1622 (Austintown, Ohio) strike that began against T&W Stamping in March has ended with Boilermakers returning to work Sept. 3. After more than five months on the picket line, the workers received guaranteed yearly raises, along with weekly incentives, but no retroactive compensation.
“The members of L-1622 are grateful for the support of their community, Boilermakers from across the U.S. and Canada, other unions and so many people who reached out in solidarity and with supplies, gift cards and financial donations,” said Don Hamric, Executive Director-ISO. “This was a stressful time for them, and even as they stood together on the picket line, it meant a lot to know so many people were standing with them.
“That’s what union organizing and solidarity means: Even when we aren’t able to achieve our ultimate goal—even when we face something really tough—we stand together.”
L-1622 had been attempting to renegotiate a contract since November 2023, after the previous contract expired. The Boilermakers went on strike after filing unfair labor practice charges with the National Labor Relations Board against T&W, protesting illegal actions by their employer.
Read a past article with more details about the cause of strike.
