Boost in U.S. labour activism

Dockworkers who went on strike on October 1 are just the latest union echoing demands for better contracts, with at least 250 strikes and other labour actions recorded so far this year


U.S. work stoppages: Collaboration between Cornell University’s ILR School and University of Illinois’ LER School

2023 	466 strikes and four lockouts 	470
	Workers involved: 538,583	Strike days: 24,874,522

2022 					424
	Workers involved: 224,152	Strike days: 4,447,588

2021					265
	Workers involved: 140,272	Strike days: 3,269,186


Recent key union actions in 2024

International Longshoremen’s Association	
Oct 1: 45,000 union members walk out at 36 U.S. ports

International Association of Machinists	
Sep 13: Around 33,000 Boeing machinists seek 40% pay rise and restoration of pension demands	
Teamsters union workers
Sep 4: More than 200 Teamsters members working at Marathon’s Detroit refinery strike after months of pay and safety-related negotiations stall

Culinary and Bartenders Union
May 24: Over 700 hospitality workers strike as they push for new five-year union contract


Sources: Cornell University, University of Illinois 
Picture: Getty Images 
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