In a significant move, the United Auto Workers (UAW) union has officially called for a cease-fire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The UAW’s decision makes it the largest labor organization in the United States to take such a stance.
The union’s call for a cease-fire was announced by UAW Region 9A Director Bradon Mancilla, who stated that the executive board had made the decision to support a cease-fire in Israel and Palestine. This move is seen as a significant step in promoting peace and justice globally.
Mancilla emphasized the UAW’s history of standing up for justice and its commitment to opposing conflicts such as fascism in WWII, apartheid in South Africa, and the CONTRA war. He expressed pride in the UAW’s official endorsement of a cease-fire and highlighted the formation of a Divestment and Just Transition working group within the International Executive Board. This group will delve into the history of the Israel-Palestine conflict, explore the union’s economic ties to the conflict, and work towards a just transition for US workers from war to peace.
The UAW’s call for a cease-fire has gained support from various labor unions, including the UFCW3000 union, which represents over 50,000 members in grocery, retail, and other industries across Washington state, northeast Oregon, and northern Idaho. Sarah Lazare, editor of Workday Magazine, confirmed that the UAW signed on to a letter sponsored by the UFCW3000 union, urging for an immediate end to the hostilities in Israel and Palestine.
The letter, supported by labor union signatories and 13 members of Congress, calls on President Joe Biden and Congress to push for an immediate cease-fire and an end to the siege of Gaza. It emphasizes the solidarity of the American labor movement with workers in the region and condemns any hate crimes against Muslims, Jews, or any other group.
It is worth noting that the UAW’s endorsement of a cease-fire comes after the terrorist group Hamas attacked Israel, leading to the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis and the taking of 240 hostages. Currently, more than 130 hostages remain in Gaza.
The UAW’s decision to support a cease-fire underscores the growing concern within the labor movement regarding the ongoing conflict. This move amplifies the voices of workers who are advocating for peace and highlights the need for international efforts to bring an end to the violence.
