IAM District 751 in Washington State has donated $32,000 to the strike fund of IAM District 837, supporting workers currently on strike against The Boeing Company in St. Louis. This gesture is intended to reinforce unity within the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) as District 837 members continue their contract negotiations.
Since the strike began on August 4, various labor groups, local unions, elected officials, and community supporters have shown solidarity with the striking workers. 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 significant 53-day strike against Boeing in 2024 that resulted in improved conditions for workers in his district. He attended a recent rally with St. Louis strikers to personally deliver the donation.
IAM District 837 President Tom Boelling 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.”
Negotiations between IAM Union District 837 and Boeing are ongoing under federal mediation after members voted to strike due to what they described as an inadequate contract offer from Boeing.
The IAM Strike Fund is available through goIAM.org to provide financial support for members during strikes by allowing donations from non-dues sources such as families or other supporters.
The union encourages further contributions from locals, districts, and allies to help sustain those on strike while bargaining continues.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represents approximately 600,000 active and retired members across several industries throughout North America.
