"To authorize a strike" means giving permission or approval for a group of workers to collectively stop working as a form of protest or negotiation with their employer. Full definition
CHICAGO — Unionized employees of the Chicago Park District voted Saturday to authorize a strike if negotiations with the city do not result in a new contract. (articles.chicagotribune.com)
SAG - AFTRA, a union representing voice actors and stunt performers, authorized a strike against game developers that began this morning. (warpzoned.com)
Workers first voted to authorize a strike last week, CNN Money reports. (fortune.com)