Stellantis, the parent company of the Kokomo Transmission and Casting Plants in Indiana, has announced temporary layoffs of 700 employees due to the ongoing UAW strike. The layoffs will be effective from October 13. Stellantis stated that discussions with the UAW are centered around resolving issues to secure immediate financial gains and job security for employees, while also ensuring the company’s sustainability. The company currently has 1,340 employees on temporary layoff across three states. Despite the layoffs, some workers remain supportive of the strike and are committed to standing together in solidarity.
Terry Doran, a worker at the Kokomo Casting Plant for the past ten years, expressed his dedication to the UAW cause and plans to join picket lines in Ohio. Although he hasn’t been laid off himself, Doran finds this round of layoffs distressing, as it raises concerns about the fate of his colleagues and friends. He questions the decision-making process behind the layoffs and emphasizes the importance of seniority in job security. Additionally, Doran worries about the long-term impact on the community and the potential strain on relationships once the strike is resolved. Despite the challenges, he maintains faith in union leadership and hopes that the fight will ultimately lead to the recovery of lost benefits and the fulfillment of promises made to workers.
Overall, Stellantis has temporarily laid off 700 employees at its Kokomo plants due to the UAW strike. Workers, including Terry Doran, remain committed to supporting the strike and are determined to stand together in solidarity. Doran expresses concerns about the uncertainty surrounding layoffs and the potential impact on friendships within the workforce. However, he continues to have faith in union leadership and remains hopeful that the strike will result in the restoration of lost benefits and the delivery of promised improvements for the workers.
