Local 689 Battles Transportation Workers Fight Back and Win
On December 4, 2025, transit workers at Battle’s Transportation/RHG Group made a decision that few workers take lightly: they went on strike. After months of stalled negotiations, allegations of unfair labor practices, and management’s refusal to bargain in good faith, members of Local 689-Washington, DC, walked off the job, determined to demand dignity, fairness, and a livable future.
Negotiations between the company and our Local 689 had begun in April, but progress was slow and frustrating. Many workers were among the lowest-paid transportation workers in the region, and the company’s proposals failed to keep up with rising living costs. Tensions escalated when the Local negotiators were harassed and intimidated, pushing them to conclude that traditional bargaining tactics were no longer enough.
Members Disrespected
“This wasn’t something we wanted to do,” said Local 689 President/Business Agent Raymond Jackson. “But our members were being disrespected, and we had to stand up for ourselves.”
As the strike began, workers were joined on the picket line by supporters from across the labor movement. International President John Costa emphasized on the line that the fight at Battle’s was part of a much larger struggle playing out nationwide. “I am proud to be here with you today,” Costa told workers, “And know that our more than 200,000 members and Locals across the United States and Canada will stand with you until you get the contract that you deserve.”
The strike didn’t just affect workers and management. It rippled outward, impacting riders, families, and public services. Still, strikers remained on the line through cold weather and the holiday season, holding firm for 23 days.
Deeply Personal Victory
Behind the scenes, negotiations continued. Public pressure mounted. And slowly, momentum shifted. On December 29, the standoff finally ended. Workers overwhelmingly ratified a new contract that included wage increases, improved health and welfare benefits, and better working conditions. This agreement was a major step forward. For many workers, the victory was deeply personal. Some described struggling to make ends meet.
Costa praised the workers’ perseverance following the ratification, saying, “I’m incredibly proud of our Local 689 Battle’s members for holding the line for more than three weeks through the holidays. Local 689 showed tremendous leadership and determination throughout this fight, standing strong to secure the agreement our members deserve. I saw firsthand on the picket line their strength, unity, and solidarity.”
The Battle’s strike lasted less than a month, but its impact will be felt much longer. It demonstrated that even under difficult conditions and when negotiations seem hopeless, collective action works. For our members who stood on the picket line, the contract was about being heard. And they were.