Allegations of Illegal Union-Busting
In a press release, the UAW stated that workers at Honda’s Indiana plant, Hyundai’s Alabama plant, and Volkswagen’s Tennessee plant have filed charges with the National Labor Relations Board against their employers for engaging in “illegally union-busting” activities.
UAW President Shawn Fain expressed his dissatisfaction, stating, “These companies are breaking the law in an attempt to suppress autoworkers and hinder their fight for fair treatment. However, these resilient workers are demonstrating their determination not to be intimidated and are standing up for their right to advocate for a better life. We stand firmly behind them, from Honda to Hyundai to Volkswagen and beyond. With the automotive industry enjoying record profits, it is only fair for these workers to receive record contracts as well.”
Claims of Targeting and Surveillance
According to the UAW, employees seeking unionization at Honda’s Indiana Auto Plant in Greensburg have reported instances of targeted surveillance and interference by management. The labor organization suggests that hundreds of workers at the facility have already signed union cards.
Honda has denied these allegations, asserting that they do not interfere with their associates’ rights and encourage informed engagement with the issue. In a statement, Honda stated, “We have not and would not interfere with our associates’ right to engage in activity supporting or opposing the UAW.”
Confiscation and Destruction of Pro-Union Materials
The UAW also accused management at Hyundai’s Alabama plant in Montgomery of unlawfully confiscating, destroying, and prohibiting pro-union materials in non-work areas during non-work times.
One worker claimed that a manager instructed her to cease distributing union leaflets in the parking lot, while another alleged that a group leader discarded union leaflets on a table in a break room.
Hyundai responded to these claims, asserting that their team members have the legal right to decide whether or not to join a union. They emphasized the need to present the accurate facts through their participation in the legal process.
Destruction of Pro-Union Materials and Interference with Distribution
Similarly, the UAW accused management at Volkswagen’s Tennessee plant in Chattanooga of destroying pro-union materials found in a break room and preventing a group from distributing union flyers to fellow employees entering the facility.
At the time of reporting, Volkswagen had not responded to requests for comment from FOX Business.