Over 3,200 Boeing defense workers rally with labor leaders in St. Louis, demanding fair pay, benefits, and respect after two months on strike.
ST. LOUIS, MO – After nearly two months on the picket line, more than 3,200 Boeing Defense workers represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 will join forces with national labor leaders, local allies, and community supporters for a major solidarity rally on Wednesday, Oct. 1, at 12 p.m. CT at IAM District 837 Union Hall, 212 Utz Lane, Hazelwood, Mo.
The strike, which began August 4, has halted production at Boeing’s defense facilities in St. Louis, St. Charles, Mo., and Mascoutah, Ill. Workers voted overwhelmingly to walk off the job after rejecting multiple company contract proposals that fell short on fair pay, secure retirement benefits, and stronger protections for families. Union members later submitted their own membership-ratified four-year proposal, but Boeing has refused to engage, prolonging the standoff and fueling frustration across the region.
The machinists of District 837 are at the heart of U.S. national security. They build and maintain the F-15 and F/A-18 fighter jets, as well as advanced missile and defense systems relied upon by the U.S. military. Union leaders warn that Boeing’s refusal to negotiate not only undermines the livelihoods of thousands of families in Missouri and Illinois but also threatens America’s defense readiness.
“This fight is about dignity, fairness, and respect for the workers who make Boeing what it is,” said Jody Bennett, IAM Resident General Vice President. “Our members deserve a contract that reflects their skill and sacrifice.”
Joining the rally will be an array of influential leaders, including Brian Bryant, IAM International President; Liz Shuler, AFL-CIO President; Sam Cicinelli, IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President; Tom Boelling, IAM District 837 Directing Business Representative; Jon Holden, IAM District 751 Directing Business Representative; Jake Hummel, Missouri AFL-CIO President; Patrick Kellett, St. Louis Labor Council President; and John Dimas, SPEEA President. Faith leaders, local unions, and community organizations are also expected to stand shoulder to shoulder with striking members.
“This strike has galvanized support far beyond the shop floor,” said Liz Shuler, AFL-CIO President. “It’s a test of whether corporations like Boeing will honor the workers who drive their success or continue to put profits over people.”
For weeks, picket lines outside Boeing facilities have drawn solidarity visits from teachers, clergy, students, and everyday residents. Local businesses have donated food, water, and supplies to sustain the striking families. The Oct. 1 rally aims to amplify that momentum, sending a powerful message that the fight for fairness at Boeing is a fight for all working families.
WHAT: Rally in support of striking Boeing Defense workers
WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, at 12 p.m. CT
WHERE: IAM District 837 Union Hall, 212 Utz Lane, Hazelwood, MO 63042
#UnionYes #AFLCIO #MissouriLabor,#StandWithIAM #BoeingStrike
