ST. LOUIS, Sept. 23, 2025 – the International Association of Machinists and aerospace Workers (IAM) today accused Boeing Defense of dishonesty, responding to the company’s dismissal of a recently ratified contract proposal by IAM District 837 members as “not real.” Jody Bennett, IAM Union Resident General Vice President, released a statement sharply criticizing Boeing’s actions amid an ongoing labor dispute.
“Boeing’s attempt to dismiss the IAM District 837 membership-ratified proposal, overwhelmingly approved by the striking men and women on the shop floor, is both insulting and dishonest,” Bennett stated. The IAM confirmed it has delivered both an email and hard copy of the proposal to Boeing, along with a request for meeting dates.
The union contends Boeing’s claim of valuing its workforce is contradicted by its refusal to acknowledge the agreement reached by its employees. “What’s not real is Boeing’s claim that it values its workforce while refusing to recognize the will of the very people who give their blood, sweat, and tears to produce the finest planes and other defense equipment that keep our nation and men and women in uniform safe,” Bennett said.
IAM District 837 members have been striking for a fair contract, having already made sacrifices through long shifts and demands for increased efficiency, according to the union. Bennett emphasized the critical role these workers play in Boeing’s success, stating, “They are why Boeing has a product to sell, a reputation to defend, and profits to claim.”
The IAM represents approximately 600,000 active and retired members in North America across a diverse range of industries including aerospace, defense, airlines, and shipbuilding. The union is calling on Boeing to return to the negotiating table in good faith and reach a swift agreement that provides its members with “a stronger voice, respect, and dignity.”
“Boeing cannot wish it away with a press release filled with lies,” Bennett concluded. “As we continue to say, the ball is in Boeing’s court.”
