Shreveport AT&T Workers Go on Strike Amid Labor Disputes

Strike Details and Background

SHREVEPORT, La. – Members of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) initiated a strike on Friday morning, August 30, 2024, demanding better wage negotiations and working conditions from AT&T. The picketing took place outside the AT&T building located on W Bert Kouns Industrial Loop in Shreveport, where workers expressed their frustration over what they describe as AT&T’s failure to negotiate in good faith during contract discussions.

Scope of the Strike

As per CWA representatives, more than 17,000 workers including technicians, customer service representatives, and support staff across various states—such as Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee—are participating in this strike. This collective action is a response to AT&T’s handling of bargaining agreements, which the union claims has not met federal labor standards.

Unfair Labor Practice Charge Filed

The CWA has also filed an unfair labor practice charge with the National Labor Relations Board against AT&T. The union accuses the company of:

• Engaging in surface bargaining without genuine intent to reach an agreement
• Failing to send representatives who are authorized to negotiate
• Refusing to discuss key topics that should be mandatory for negotiation
• Reneging on prior agreements made during negotiation

Current Contract Status

Negotiators from both sides have been engaged in discussions for a new contract since late June 2024. The current contract for CWA and AT&T Southeast expired on August 3. During the week of August 19, mediation efforts initiated by the federal government took place.

AT&T’s Response

In response to the strike and allegations, an AT&T spokesperson stated their commitment to reaching a fair deal for union members, which includes wage increases that exceed projected inflation rates and other benefits relevant to today’s job market. The company pointed out that they had successfully reached agreements with other CWA districts earlier this year and have invited a federal mediator to facilitate further discussions to ensure smooth operations and minimal disruption to customers during this labor dispute.

Community Impact

The strike has attracted attention from local supporters and community members, who have joined the workers in solidarity. As negotiations continue, the situation remains dynamic, with both sides asserting their positions publicly.