Supporting UAW Local 2093

The day was Saturday, March 15, 2008. The sun was shining, but the wind was blowing and temps hovered in the low 20’s. We left the plant around 9 a.m. and started our journey to the site of the American Axle strike in Three Rivers, Michigan. On the ride down, we talked about the length of this strike and how it must be taking a toll on the members, their families, and the community. This was day 19 and no end in sight.

Once we arrived in Three Rivers, you could see the sprawling facility from the highway. The first stop was to drive up to the front gate and chat with the strikers. They were excited to see us, and thought it was great that we made the trip from Grand Rapids to support them. We felt equally as thrilled. They directed us to their union hall where we were briefed by the local leadership about the status of the strike, membership moral, and the needs of their members.

Gilbert, Lee, and myself were shuttled to the picket line, where we walked and talked with the strikers at all three gates. Before returning to Grand Rapids, we purchased supplies that we left at Local 2093. Everyone was very grateful for all the support. This was a humbling experience for all of us.

In solidarity,

Greg Golembiewski, Lee Johns, and Gilbert Arambula