UAW's No-Handshake Policy Sets Tone for Contract Talks with Detroit 3 Automakers

The United Auto Workers (UAW) union is breaking with tradition by abandoning the ceremonial handshake to kick off contract negotiations with the Detroit 3 automakers. Instead, UAW leaders will visit assembly plants to hear worker concerns before negotiations begin. UAW President Shawn Fain stated that he will shake hands with CEOs when they present a deal that reflects the needs of workers. The handshake ceremonies have been criticized in the past for being awkward and fostering a too-cozy relationship between union leaders and automaker executives.