MILWAUKEE — Across the country, strikes against General Motors, Stellantis and Ford continue after United Auto Workers (UAW) contracts expired on Sept. 14.

UAW union members in Wisconsin rallied outside of the Stellantis Parts Distribution Center in Milwaukee Wednesday night.

Andrew Stark is an international servicing representative with Region 4 UAW. Stark said workers will fight for pay increases, better benefits and more representation.

“Stellantis, which is now what Chrysler is called, would rather throw out proposals of expanded temp usage, spend money not on wage increases but on stock buybacks and threaten plant closures right here in Milwaukee,” said Stark.

The strike is impacting around 100 workers in Milwaukee. Paul Compton is one of those workers.

“It’s been tough,” said Compton. “It’s been pretty tough knowing that you go down to $500 a week compared to what I was making. I hope they give me more pay. I hope they give me more benefits. I have two diabetic daughters. If they just keep my benefits the same or give me better benefits, I’m really hoping for that.”

The solidarity rally brought out more than just union workers. Supporters were also in attendance.

“It’s important to recognize what they’re doing is the benefit for everybody,” said supporter Eric Hansen. “It’s not them being selfish, but pushing for a decent life for everyone.”

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley were also in attendance.

“The strike we’re seeing is hitting real close to home,” said Crowley. “We’re talking about losing 100 jobs right here on this corner at a plant that’s been here over 100 years.”

Stark said they’ll continue to protest five days a week until workers have a fair contract.

“But striking UAW members in Milwaukee aren’t alone in this fight,” said Stark. “There are roughly 155,000 organized autoworkers around this country that are prepared to stand up and fight.”