Strikes have been a staple of 2023, not just in the US, but all over the world. Some of the most prominent ones that took place were the actors’ and writers’ strikes in the US. However, countries like the UK, Scotland, Tokyo, South Korea, and more have also been subject to multiple walkouts, for a variety of different ideals. Several of these were successful and racked in huge wins for multiple unions. It only begs the question, will strikes become a pattern in the future?
William Strauss and Neil Howe discussed a generational theory. They believed that past generations could reveal a set sequence that could help predict the future. Their theory detailed four turnings, that is, four stages. They believed that the Millennial generation, defined by them as being born between 1992 and 2005, would spark an ‘Unraveling’ stage, known for individualism. The current generation, labeled by them as the Homeland Generation, born from 2006 to 2029, would then be part of the crisis stage: the stage known for bringing about change.
In just one year, the Cornell University Labor Action tracker has detected over 400 labor actions in the US. One example of success is the UPS strike threat that won 340,000 workers better pay and nicer work conditions. Other successes include the healthcare strike performed by workers at Kaiser-Permanente, which bettered conditions for both workers and patients, or the strike by United Auto Workers that fought for better work conditions in battery manufacturing.
Following tentative agreements between the United Auto Workers union with Stellatnis and Ford, acting US Labor Secretary Julie Su said in a statement, “[The] agreement demonstrates what is possible when workers have a voice and a seat at the table.”
Even in Europe, several walkouts reigned, for months, trains and flights were delayed due to labor strikes. The New York Times reported that France and Italy both saw regular strikes from March all the way to June. In the UK, some strikes mirrored those in the U.S. by asking for changes in healthcare systems. One particular strike continued from back in 2018, calling for better pay and work conditions for university staff.
“This strike is about pay, but our dispute over working conditions runs deep. … We’re treated as disposable,” one teacher from the University of Sheffield told The World Socialist Web Site.
On December 11, events in Israel and Palestine drove strikes internationally. People from all over the world demanded a ceasefire in Gaza by putting aside nearly everything. Several employees called out of work, stores refused to open, and students even skipped school in support. Others worked less hours or refused to make any payments throughout the day.
“I think if closing my business brings to light what’s going on and educates just one person then I made my impact,” said one woman to CNN.
As the year comes to close, several other unions prepare to strike. Many have gained better pay, healthcare, and treatment. Strikes have given a voice to several groups of people this past year, winning them protection beyond what many imagined.
Could it be that Strauss and Howe’s theory is proving to hold up? Well, one thing is shown; that the world is ready to act, and with all the change strikes have brought about in 2023, it’s likely they will continue to be a powerful weapon in the future.
