AT&T Workers Strike for Fair Negotiations in Southeast

AT&T Workers Strike Across Southeast

About 17,000 AT&T workers , represented by the Communications Workers of America ( CWA ) , initiated a strike across the Southeast , including employees in Huntsville , Birmingham , and Mobile . The strike was approved following a complaint to the National Labor Relations Board , accusing AT&T of unfair labor practices in its contract talks with the CWA units . The previous contract expired in August , and the union is seeking wage increases , cost - of - living adjustments , and increased job security.

Union 's Allegations Against AT&T

The CWA claimed that AT&T engaged in surface bargaining and did not send representatives with the authority to make decisions during negotiations . The union emphasized the need for AT&T to negotiate in good faith to reach a fair contract . The strike involves technicians , customer service representatives , and other workers in Alabama and eight other Southeastern states . The union represents workers in various cities across Alabama , including Anniston , Gadsden , Montgomery , and Tuscaloosa.

Since the last contract was ratified in 2019 , the union has been advocating for fair terms , considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and rising inflation . AT&T 's recent tentative bargaining agreement with the CWA 's western units does not apply to the southeastern units , which are under a separate contract . The strike highlights the importance of fair labor practices and negotiations in ensuring workers ' rights are protected.

Union 's Call for Fair Negotiations

The CWA emphasized the importance of fair negotiations and expressed the desire to reach a mutually beneficial agreement with AT&T. The strike serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by workers in various industries and the need for fair wages and job security . AT&T 's response to the union 's allegations and the ongoing strike will determine the outcome of the negotiations and the impact on the thousands of workers involved . The union 's actions also shed light on the broader issues of labor rights and fair treatment of employees in the telecommunications industry.