JAN. 30, 2018, WASHINGTON, DC – Machinists Union International President Robert Martinez Jr., released the following statement on Harley-Davidson’s announcement that it will close its Kansas City, Mo., manufacturing facility:
“Kansas City is suffering the consequences of Harley-Davidson’s continued neglect of its North American workforce and ridership. Harley-Davidson has yet to put together a program that increases market share in North America with motorcycles made here, instead of overseas. Why can’t Harley-Davidson manufacture its new electric motorcycle in Kansas City? This company’s executive leadership team is letting Harley-Davidson’s foundation crumble.
“Hundreds of working families are now wondering what their future holds because of this self-proclaimed American icon’s insistence on shipping our jobs to Asia and South America. I’m sick of seeing our jobs disappear or turn into part-time work. We hope investors and policy-makers join our call to finally bring our jobs home. I am employing every resource necessary to assist Kansas City and our membership.”
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, or Machinists Union, represents 572 members at the affected Harley-Davidson and Syncreon plants in Kansas City, Mo.
