LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Dozens of striking union workers gathered near a bonfire Friday outside the east end Kentucky Truck Plant (KTP). They watched and listened as union president Shawn Fain gave his latest update.
They've been on the picket line since Oct. 11.
"We've seen serious movement from both Stellantis and [General Motors]; meantime Ford continues to stew about KTP and pretend that they can't afford what we're asking for," Fain said.
Fain didn't announce any new strikes, but he did share proposals showing GM and Stellantis have matched Ford in a 23% wage increase.
Some KTP employees are starting to feel the brunt of the strike with the holidays right around the corner.
"I mean it's good that we're making progress and they're coming forward but we are not where we need to be," autoworker Jenn Thompson said.
Some union members told WHAS11 there is still work that needs to be done, and with Ford not making a move, they have no other choice but to strike.
"When it was at 9% that was as high as they were going to go and now we're up to 23%," union member Pat Herman said.
He said he remembers the days when Ford was known for their large salaries. He and so many others feel wages need to match inflation.
"At the end of the day that's what it is; as much as we gave up we need to go a little bit further," autoworker Jeremy Adkins said.
KTP workers said they will strike as long as it takes.
"Still work to be done there's still talks to be had on both sides and we will still be out here doing what we need to do in the meantime," Thompson said.
As the days get darker much faster, they're trying to stay optimistic.
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