The UAW strike is getting big headlines because, well, 73,000 people do not go on strike collectively every day. The Presidential candidates, especially the Democratic ones are saying and definitely not doing much except for one. Both John and Elizabeth Edwards are endorsing the UAW's efforts, not just with words, but actions.
From John Edwards' Blog:
John Edwards will walk the UAW Picket Line tomorrow with members of U.A.W. Local 774 in their picket of GM's Powertrain plant in Buffalo.
Elizabeth quoted the labor motto, "Injury to one of us is injury to all of us." She stated that, "When people have to come to the streets in order to provide for job security, to make sure that when they retire they'll have the health benefits they deserve, that's an injury to all of us. And all of us ought to be indicating our support."
Yesterday, Edwards issued a statement of strong support for the striking UAW Members:
Edwards Statement In Support Of Striking UAW Members
I offer my strong support to the striking auto workers and look forward to a fair and speedy settlement that will improve the lives of these hard-working UAW members. And I call on General Motors to do what is right and realize that it has a responsibility to negotiate fairly and move quickly to settle a contract that respects the health, safety and economic security of the auto workers and their families. I also salute the courage of the auto workers to go on strike. Their fight for fair wages, safe workplaces, affordable health care and a secure retirement helps raise standards for workers all across America.
"Sadly, the issues on the bargaining table between General Motors and the United Auto Workers are not unique to Detroit - they represent the larger failures of Washington and public policies that have weakened unions and the middle class. The truth is now, more than ever, it's time for America to go in a new direction and start doing much more to strengthen America's unions and protect the rights of working Americans."
His strong words are being backed by equally strong actions. I have yet to see Hillary or Obama walk a picket line. This is more than just some photo-op, its about changing the status quo in our country today. John's presence tomorrow and Elizabeth's walk already sends a message to corporate America that the middle class deserves better than to be pushed around like commodities that can be bought and sold depending on which worker is cheaper to maintain. Getting business done is important, but people must be put first.
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