Striketober Is Here—What You Need to Know

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Despite common misconceptions, the unemployment rate in the U.S. continues to decline, and many employers are increasing wages to keep their workforce engaged as the pandemic lingers. Yet, an increasing number of employees are choosing this moment to strike. According to TIME, within the first five days of October, there were 10 strikes across the nation, including workers at Kellogg facilities in multiple states, school bus drivers in Maryland, and janitors at Denver International Airport. Additionally, nearly 60,000 union members in film and television production voted overwhelmingly to empower their union president to initiate a strike.

You might be questioning why employees are walking off the job now, especially with more job opportunities and wage increases. In short, they are fed up. Many essential workers, who were lauded during the pandemic, are having a collective realization about their treatment. They have endured low wages and high risks, and with companies eager to maintain their workforce, employees are recognizing their leverage in this situation.

Who’s Striking During #Striketober?

Unions representing over 100,000 workers have either gone on strike or are planning to do so this month. Some notable strikes include:

10,000 workers at John Deere protesting pay and working conditions.
More than 24,000 healthcare workers at Kaiser Permanente.
About 60,000 Hollywood workers, members of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, who threatened a strike but have recently reached an agreement.
700 nurses in Massachusetts, 2,000 hospital workers in New York, and 1,400 Kellogg factory employees in multiple states have already walked out this month.

Why Are Strikes Increasing Now?

After enduring the pandemic, balancing work, family, and health, many employees are simply exhausted and seeking better conditions. Essential workers have faced significant challenges, including staff shortages and stagnant wages, all while trying to juggle their responsibilities at home. Meanwhile, corporate profits have surged, and billionaires continue to amass wealth—surprising, right?

Conditions for essential workers have been subpar for years, but the pandemic has intensified their struggles. As noted by a former U.S. Secretary of Labor, the current crisis reflects a shortage of living wages, hazard pay, childcare, paid sick leave, and healthcare. Without addressing these issues, many Americans may not return to work anytime soon.

As someone who hasn’t returned to work since the peak of COVID, I can relate to the hesitation many feel. Nationwide, people are feeling empowered to pursue what they truly deserve. Let’s hope these movements encourage large corporations to show appreciation for the loyalty of their employees during such challenging times. We all have enough to worry about; we shouldn’t have to compromise our health, happiness, and financial stability.

This article was originally published on Oct. 19, 2021.

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Summary:

As we witness #Striketober, a wave of strikes across various sectors highlights workers’ frustrations amid rising corporate profits and stagnant wages. Over 100,000 employees are standing up for better working conditions, seeking a fairer balance after enduring the pandemic’s challenges. Major unions are taking action, and this movement aims to inspire corporations to recognize the value of their loyal workforce.

Keyphrase: Striketober strikes
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