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 is intended to help District 837 members as they continue their strike, which began on August 4, after contract negotiations with Boeing stalled.
The strike has drawn support from various groups, including local unions, elected officials, and community organizations. Jon Holden, President and Directing Business Representative of IAM District 751, stated, “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 strike against Boeing in 2024 that resulted in significant gains for workers in his region. He visited St. Louis earlier this month to attend a rally with strikers and personally deliver the donation.
The ongoing negotiations between IAM District 837 and Boeing are currently being mediated by a federal official. Tom Boelling, President and Directing Business Representative of IAM District 837, said, “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 who wish to contribute non-dues money to support striking members. The union has encouraged other locals, districts, and supporters to donate as well.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represents around 600,000 active and retired members across various industries throughout North America.
