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.
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
