Behind the picket line: Dexter laborers demand fair overtime pay amid stalled talks

Laborers at Faurecia/Forvia in Dexter did something Dec. 3, that they had never done before: they went on strike. And, though there is communication between the union and the plant management, there is no end in sight at this time.

According to local 1930 UAW President Jack Bess, the situation is currently being discussed electronically with a mediator through email.

“We aren’t face-to-face with negotiations at this time,” Bess noted. “The biggest concern that we can’t seem to make progress with is the overtime issue.”

Bess explained the current issue regarding overtime has to do with the plant management’s unwillingness to maintain the previous contract language regarding overtime.

“They basically want to redefine it and change it around to where they can manipulate the hours without paying us overtime,” Bess explained. “They basically want to control us and pay us regular pay for when they decide they want us to work on a weekend when we’re supposed to be off.”

Bess went on to say he is optimistic the situation could be resolved reasonably soon after settling the overtime issue.

“There are still some issues related to pay that we need to work out,” Bess said. “But I don’t think we’re too far off from agreeing on that. I’m confident that could be settled quickly.”

When asked if he would be willing to guess what has precipitated the company’s recent decisions, Bess said he had no idea.

“I know it can’t be financial,” Bess remarked. “At the beginning of all this, we were told that the finances were great and that business was great. So, I can’t imagine they’re projecting something bad for the future.”

Community support

Bess said he has been overwhelmed by the level of support coming in from the community since the strike started.

“We are getting so much support from individuals who stop by and tell us their stories and offer to bring us things to eat or drink,” Bess said. “And we even have been getting support from local businesses as well. We couldn’t ask for a better public response.”

Bess recently decided to address the public as a whole by releasing an official letter.

“Despite this, the strength of our community has been a beacon of hope. Your unwavering solidarity whether through kind words, shared resources, or public support reminds us that we are not alone in this fight,” Bess said in the letter. “We remain committed to working tirelessly to secure a contract that upholds the dignity and reflects the values we all hold dear as members of this community.”

As the negotiations continue, Bess said the public is welcome to join the picket line or bring donations to the union members.

“We hope this can get settled soon, but we’re prepared to stay on strike,” Bess noted. “We need to do what’s best for the workers. That’s what this is about.”

Company officials have not responded to requests for comment.