When workers go on strike, they often find themselves facing financial difficulties when “strike pay” proves to be much less than their regular paychecks and frustration over the unknowns of how long the strike may keep them off the job.
The Detroit Free Press recently reported on autoworkers impacted by a UAW strike:
Baynham said she has been a member of the UAW for 11 years. This is her third contract, but the first time she has ever had to strike. The pay for union workers on strike is $500 a week — even less after taxes. Those seeking a second job to make ends meet cannot make over $499 a week or they will forfeit their strike pay. For those like Baynham who have a child and living expenses, the pay is not enough and the uncertainty is nerve-wracking, she said.