About 84 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 1297 at Libbey Glass in Toledo are set to begin a strike on Friday, August 22, at 11:59 p.m. ET. The union says the action is in response to what it describes as unfair labor practices by Libbey Glass, including the company’s failure to bargain in good faith and present a fair contract offer.
Union members had previously rejected the company’s latest contract proposal on August 9. They have raised concerns about issues such as pay rates, mandatory overtime that limits family time, reductions in union rights and protections, and increasing health insurance costs. According to IAM Local 1297, Libbey Glass has not returned to negotiations or offered an improved contract since then.
“IAM Local 1297 members have made tremendous sacrifices for this company after it came out of bankruptcy and liquidation in 2020,” said IAM District 54 President and Directing Business Representative T. Dean Wright, Jr. “These members, their families and this community have been left with no choice but to take to the streets to protest the company’s unfair labor practices, protect the members’ rights and demand fairness, respect and dignity.”
IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan added: “The entire IAM Union stands united with our Local 1297 members at Libbey Glass. We are committed to winning a fair contract that reflects the skill, sacrifice and value our members bring to this company every single day.”
