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On July 29, more than a thousand comrades from Section 341 in Gómez Palacio, Durango, made a brave and necessary decision: to go on strike against the Linamar company. The refusal of this Canadian company to negotiate its Collective Labor Agreement (CCT) and to recognize the National Miners’ Union – which I am honored to preside – as its legitimate representative is a flagrant violation of the union rights established in our federal legislation, as well as in agreements 87 and 98 of the International Labor Organization (ILO), ratified by Mexico. This act of resistance not only marks a milestone in the labor struggle, but also underlines the importance of unity and solidarity among workers.
The results of this strike have been significant and positive. After arduous negotiations in the Federal Labor Court, Linamar recognized the National Miners’ Union as the head of the CCT, agreed to pay 100 percent of back wages and reinstate five workers unfairly dismissed a year ago for supporting the change of union; it also committed to not retaliate against these employees and to review the collective agreement in January 2025. This victory is a testament to the power of unity and the perseverance of workers.
The strike at Linamar is just one example of the ongoing struggle of workers for their rights. On this occasion, the company’s actions represent a challenge not only to us, but to the very concept of labor justice in Mexico. It is unacceptable that a foreign company acts with such impunity and contempt toward Mexican workers. Therefore, we call on the authorities to act firmly and guarantee respect for our rights at all times, regardless of the company or the circumstance.
Defending labor rights in Mexico is a priority for us and our international allies. In May 2024, a United Steelworkers (USW) delegation, led by District 6 Director Myles Sullivan, met with Canada’s Deputy Ambassador to Mexico, Shauna Heming-way, and several of her colleagues, to express our concerns about continued violations of labor rights, despite the entry into force of labor reform in Mexico and the labor chapter of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). This global collaboration is critical to advancing labor justice and ensuring that workers’ voices are heard and respected.
International solidarity has therefore been crucial in this process. We are grateful for the support of the United Steelworkers (USW) union in Canada and the United States, with whom we share close collaboration and commitment in the union struggle. This support strengthens our position and puts workers at the centre of the global labour debate. International solidarity highlights the importance of a progressive vision demanding fair and dignified conditions for all.
Another recent victory was at ArcelorMittal in Lázaro Cárdenas, Michoacán, an example of how unity, resistance and union life guarantee victories from the rank and file. After 55 days of strike, we achieved unprecedented agreements, including the audit of the company’s profits and the payment of 100 percent of back wages. In addition, it was agreed to equalize the distribution of profits between the employees of ArcelorMittal México and ArcelorMittal Las Truchas, as well as an additional 60 thousand pesos, plus 17 thousand net in food vouchers as an incentive for each plant colleague and eventual unionized workers. This success would not have been possible without the strength that prevails among the members of section 271, who, despite the company’s attacks, continued in the struggle with great dignity and persistence.
We are convinced that the next government will pay special attention and there will be no turning back in the fight for labor rights. It is essential to give greater prominence to the labor movement, which truly reflects the situation of the country. We must strengthen authentic union freedom to achieve fair conditions and an equitable distribution of the resources produced by the working class. The incoming administration must keep in mind that this fight is a priority, and there is no turning back.
Without a doubt, at ArcelorMittal and Linamar, strikes continue to be a tool and symbol of resistance and dignity. The recognition of trade union freedom and the election of workers to be represented by the National Miners’ Union is an unprecedented victory, since this company has refused to unionize even in its country of origin, Canada, and in its plants in the United States. Thus, the Mexican miners mark a historic moment, a convincing demonstration that the workers’ struggle yields results.
Our commitment to labour justice is unwavering. We will protect the rights of our members, strengthening our unity and solidarity, and ensuring that no company, domestic or foreign, violates them with impunity. I call on workers and society at large to unite in this regard: unity and solidarity are powerful tools; together we can ensure a more just and equitable future for all.
In this context, it is imperative that labour authorities act effectively and impartially in the face of such injustices. We cannot allow companies of any nationality to act with impunity and illegality. The rights of our mining brothers must be respected and guaranteed.
The strike at Linamar and the victory at ArcelorMittal are clear examples that the fight for workers’ rights knows no borders. It is a global battle that requires solidarity, unity and a progressive vision. We will continue to fight for a future where all workers, regardless of their nationality, are treated with dignity and respect, and where their rights are fully recognised and protected.
