United Steel Workers Continue Libbey Strike; Host Rally Outside of Glass Issues Conference
Hundreds of union members gathered Tuesday morning in the Glass City for a rally supporting striking workers at Libbey Glass, marking what union leaders say is the company’s longest work stoppage in 50 years.
The rally was held just blocks from a major glass industry conference, where union leaders aimed to send a strong message to Libbey Glass and others in the industry.
“We just want a fair contract,” said Donnie Blatt, USW District 1 Director for Ohio and Michigan. “Libbey Glass has refused to come back to the table unless we accept their so-called ‘last, best, and final’ offer. That’s not bargaining, that’s a demand.”
Blatt said the strike affects three locals, including 59M, 65T, and 700.
He explained the strike stems from stalled negotiations over wages, healthcare, and job security. He pointed to sacrifices workers made in 2020 and 2021, when the company was facing bankruptcy amid the COVID-19 pandemic.