Organizers and leaders of United Steelworkers 2911 are turning to President Joe Biden in a bid to secure higher tariffs aimed at curbing the influx of subsidized foreign steel, a move they believe could safeguard the future of Cleveland-Cliffs’ Weirton tin mill. The rally, attended by hundreds despite the rain, served as a platform to garner support for a petition urging President Biden to take action against the import of foreign steel.
Challenges Faced by Weirton Tin Mill
Amid concerns about the Weirton facility’s impending closure, Mark Glyptis, president of Local 2911, emphasized the critical role of presidential intervention in preserving the mill. Despite looming Worker Adjustment and Retraining Act letters, Glyptis remains hopeful that concerted efforts from local representatives and the Biden administration could avert the plant’s closure. However, the recent ruling by the U.S. International Trade Commission against tariffs has been met with criticism, deemed “totally un-American” by Glyptis.
Impact of Unfair Trade Practices
Glyptis highlighted the detrimental impact of unfair trade practices, citing instances where imported steel from various countries has been sold in the U.S. at prices significantly below market value. This, coupled with anti-dumping cases filed with the U.S. Department of Commerce, underscores the urgent need for protective measures to shield domestic steel producers from unfair competition.
Community Concerns and Collective Action
The rally resonated with sentiments of concern and solidarity among Weirton Steelworkers and their supporters, who fear the potential ramifications of the mill’s closure on the local community and the broader American steel industry. Retirees and current employees alike voiced their apprehensions, emphasizing the historical significance of the steel mill and its integral role in national security and infrastructure. Through grassroots activism and online campaigns, organizers aim to raise awareness and mobilize public support to safeguard the future of Weirton Steel and the American steel industry as a whole.