United Auto Worker members at John Deere facilities in Iowa, Illinois and Kansas have ratified a new 6-year collective bargaining agreement, ending their strike which began on October 14.

By a vote of 61% to 39%, UAW John Deere members ratified the agreement which includes an $8,500 signing bonus; 20% increase in wages over the lifetime of the contract with 10% this year; return of Cost of Living adjustments; three 3% lump sum payments; enhanced options for retirement and enhanced CIPP performance benefits.

UAW members stood together to attain a better standard of living and a more secure retirement. The contract sets a new standard for workers not only within the UAW but throughout the country. Through sacrifice and solidarity working people continue to fight for fairness and equity at work and advance our country for us all.

“UAW John Deere members did not just unite themselves, they seemed to unite the nation in a struggle for fairness in the workplace,” said UAW President Ray Curry. “We could not be more proud of these UAW members and their families.”

“There is power in a union,” said Wisconsin AFL-CIO President Stephanie Bloomingdale. “Congratulations to all the UAW members at John Deere and all their families who sacrificed and held the line to make this achievement possible. The UAW John Deere strike captured the nation’s attention and will inspire other workers across our country to stand up and stand together for fairness, dignity, and respect at work. The tide is turning for workers and the labor movement is leading the charge for fair wages, meaningful benefits, and a better workplace for all.”

Locally UAW Region 4 Director Ron McInroy thanked the communities and families of John Deere UAW members for their support and thanked the members for their solidarity. “Our members stood together and did not waiver,” said McInroy. “Members and their families put a lot on the line for these gains and the community support was overwhelming. I’d like to thank the John Deere members, their families, their leaders and our bargaining team for standing firm and achieving these important gains.”

As UAW John Deere workers return to work, thousands of working people are striking, holding the line for fair contracts and a strong middle class. View the AFL-CIO strike map to see where workers are on strike across the country.