GM Workers in Mexico Reject Corrupt Union to Form New One

GM Workers in Silao, Mexico.

Workers at General Motors plant in Silao, Mexico, have formed a new union – the national union of automotive workers, SINTTIA. The union seeks to represent GM workers and negotiate a new collective employment agreement. In a crucial vote on 17 and 18 August, workers rejected the current collective bargaining agreement, controlled by what they say is – with justification in AutoInformed’s view – the corrupt Miguel Trujillo López union, affiliated to the Confederation of Mexican Workers (CTM).

Silao builds Chevrolet Silverado LD Crew Cab and Reg Cab, as well as GMC Sierra LD Crew Cab and Reg Cab trucks that are among GM’s most profitable vehicles. GM did not immediately respond to AutoInformed’s request for comments. (Variables Abound – Meet the New NAFTA; Collision Course – Trump, Mexico, NAFTA; Ford Invests $1.6 Billion in Mexico. NAFTA Sucking Sound of Lost U.S. Jobs Continues During Fierce Presidential Race)

An alternative, independent union has been created, backed by the “Generando Movimiento” collective, run by current and former GM workers and who has been the subject of reprisals by the company during the past two years. The aim is to build a representative union ready to engage in dialogue with the company to safeguard workers’ rights, according to IndustriALL, an international federation of unions.

SINTTIA general secretary María Alejandra Morales, who has worked at GM for eleven years, said that the new union has been officially approved by and registered with Mexico’s labor ministry. “In the end, we spoke up. Our workers stand united and are ready to fight for their rights and overthrow the CTM, which does not protect them or do anything to improve the benefits they receive,” said Morales.

IndustriALL Global Union’s regional secretary, Marino Vani, said: “When workers are unified and take action together, and when they support their leaders, they can ensure respect and dignity at work. SINTTIA is the way to create a dignified workplace – only through an organized campaign can you gain momentum and secure the collective agreement you deserve.”