Wabtec Negotiations 2023

In an op-ed posted today on GoErie.com, Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) writes, “let's be clear: what’s good for workers is good for America. So when workers stand up and strike, I believe it’s our duty to have their backs. ... I understand that it’s thanks to unions that countless Pennsylvania families can put food on the table every night. That’s why I always have and always will go the mat to fight for unions and the workers they represent.”

A number of key issues still divide the two parties. [UE Local 506 President Scott] Slawson said those issues include general wage increases, health care, the right to strike over grievances and the progressive wage scale that initially pays new employees at a lower rate.

From the union’s perspective, he said, the company still has a long way to go.

After weeks of picketing, UE Local 506 and 618 workers on strike got a taste of the islands with a free concert. Robbie York, known in the music world as Lopaka Rootz, looked to provide a positive boost of energy through his playing.

Meanwhile at the other entrance of Wabtec on Franklin Avenue, the Benedictine Sisters hosted a silent peace walk, showing their solidarity with those on strike.

“Workers from UE Locals 506 and 618 are now officially being backed not only by Democrats, but Republicans as well. Erie County officials are now supporting them, by a bi-partisan resolution. Erie County Council Chairman Brian Schank said this was an issue that wasn’t decided by D versus R, it was just simply the right thing to do.”

President of the Pennsylvania AFL-CIO Angela Ferrito spoke to the union workers and told them that they are with them in this battle. “We are standing in solidarity with them as they take on this huge corporation in a fight for fair working conditions and fair wages for all of the workers”