A strike involving over 17,000 AT&T Southeast employees has begun, as workers protest what they describe as unfair labor practices by the telecommunications giant. The Communications Workers of America (CWA), the largest communications and media labor union in the United States, announced the strike on Friday, citing significant issues in the ongoing union contract negotiations.
Alabama AT&T workers among thousands on strike over unfair labor practices https://t.co/kPPYn6YYqW
— News 19 (@whnt) August 17, 2024
The CWA alleges that during the negotiations, AT&T sent representatives who were not prepared to engage in meaningful discussions, thereby violating the legal obligation to bargain in good faith. According to Richard Honeycutt, Vice President of CWA District 3, the union approached the bargaining table with a genuine desire to secure a fair contract but was met with resistance. “Our members want to be on the job, providing the quality service that our customers deserve. It’s time for AT&T to start negotiating in good faith so that we can move forward towards a fair contract,” Honeycutt stated.
In response, AT&T issued a statement on Saturday morning, refuting the union’s claims. The company emphasized its commitment to reaching an agreement that benefits its employees and pointed out that they have successfully negotiated three other agreements this year, covering over 13,000 employees, including a recent tentative agreement with District 9 in the western U.S.
“We’re disappointed that union leaders would call for a strike at this point in the negotiations, rather than directing their energies toward constructive discussions at the bargaining table,” an AT&T representative said. The company also assured that they are taking steps to prevent any disruptions to customer service during the strike.
17,000 Workers at AT&T Southeast Strike Over Unfair Labor Practices https://t.co/TQMLWummW0
— Danilo Delgado (@danilodelgadocu) August 17, 2024
The strike affects AT&T’s operations in nine southeastern states, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Despite the ongoing labor dispute, AT&T remains determined to maintain its coverage and services in these regions.
Key Points:
- Over 17,000 AT&T Southeast employees are on strike, accusing the company of unfair labor practices during union contract negotiations.
- The Communications Workers of America (CWA) claims AT&T representatives failed to negotiate in good faith, leading to a complaint filed with the National Labor Relations Board.
- AT&T disputes the CWA’s claims, stating they have engaged in substantive bargaining and expressing disappointment over the strike.
- The strike is affecting AT&T operations across nine states in the southeastern U.S., but the company insists services will not be disrupted.
- The ongoing dispute highlights tensions between the company and its workforce as they seek a fair contract agreement.
Fallon Jacobson – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
