The freedom to form unions is a basic human right. In 1935, the US Government enacted the National Labor Relations Act that said, “Employees shall have the right to form…labor organizations…to bargain collectively (and employers may not) interfere with…the exercise of…this right.” In 1948, the US joined four-fifths of United Nations member states to ratify the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which included the right of all people to come together in unions.
Workers form unions because there is power in numbers. Where unions are strong, employers must bargain collectively to set the terms and conditions of employment. The demand for profits must then be compromised with fairness toward workers. Unions empower workers by organizing and uniting people with common goals. When people advocate as one, they are more powerful and can accomplish more than as individuals.
- A Voice on the Job. All Union workers have the right to negotiate with their employer over working conditions, hours, wages, and benefits. Without unions, private management has the power to make all the decisions alone. Without collective bargaining, employees have no legal rights at all under the state’s “right to work” labor laws.
- Strength in Numbers. Union workers negotiate and organize for improvements as a unified group instead of as individuals. When we work together, this collective force translates into more power and a better chance of getting our voices heard.
- A Legally Binding Written Contract. Union workers have a contract that defines and guarantees the terms of our employment. The members of the union negotiate their contract with management. With help from union staff, we decide what gets proposed, elect our own bargaining team, negotiate the contract and vote to approve the contract.
- Protection and Support. Union workers need the assurance that our workplace rights, including safety and health conditions, are being monitored, upheld and ensure the ability to challenge any unfair or questionable decisions or actions.
- Respect. Union workers join, not because they are against their employers, but because they want to improve jobs by joining with co-workers to gain greater respect and control over our worksite and employment.
What has the history of organized unions done for us?
- 8 hour work day
- 5 day work week
- Health Insurance
- Good Pensions
- Higher Wages
- Overtime Pay
- Job Safety
- Job Security
- Family and Medical Leave
- Fair treatment for all without regard to their race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, or disabilities.