Not represented by a union, but want to be?
By A. Lee Scott
1. Admit there is a problem.
2. Identify the problem.
3. Solve the problem.
For workers seeking a stronger voice on the job, union organizing is one way to move from recognizing workplace challenges to collectively addressing them. Inequality is not simply the inevitable by-product of a healthy economy. It is often the result of policies, practices and power imbalances that limit workers’ ability to act collectively and negotiate for safe working conditions, fair wages and quality benefits.
Economic fairness is strengthened when workers come together to advocate for workplace rights and protections:
* The right to organize
* The right to collectively bargain over wages, benefits and working conditions
* Legal protections for workers who participate in lawful strikes
* Meaningful accountability for employers who violate workers’ rights
* Accessible, secure and fair union elections.
Grocery store workers stocking shelves. ALSIS Images | A. Lee Scott Photographer
Restrauant Worker slicing dough. ALSIS Images | A. Lee Scott Photographer
Outdoor Custodian ALSIS Images | A. Lee Scott Photographer
The Organizing Process
A union organizing campaign typically begins in one of two ways:
1. A union reaches out to employees to discuss workplace concerns and the possibility of organizing, or
2. Employees contact a union seeking assistance in forming a bargaining unit.
Once employees decide to move forward, the union helps them gather signatures indicating support for union representation.
When a majority of employees sign authorization cards, the union may present that evidence to the employer. If the employer voluntarily recognizes the union, the union can be certified as the employees’ collective bargaining representative.
If the employer declines to recognize the union, the matter may proceed to a secret ballot election conducted by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). During the election process, federal labor law places important limits on employer conduct. For example, employers may not threaten employees, retaliate against them for union activity, or interfere with their right to discuss and support unionization. The NLRB oversees election procedures, including ballot security and vote counting.
If a majority of employees voting in the election choose union representation. The NLRB certifies the union as the employees’ exclusive bargaining representative. The collective bargaining process then begins.
Why Organization Matters
For workers in every industry and profession, organization is often the most effective way to protect economic interests and secure a meaningful voice in workplace decisions. Through collective action, workers can advocate for improvements in workplace safety, wages, benefits and other conditions of employment. Many of the workplace protections workers rely on today were rooted and achieved through collective organizing and bargaining efforts. When workers act together, they are generally in a stronger position to negotiate than when acting alone.
Conclusion
Non-union employees who want a greater voice in their workplace should consider organizing. Through collective bargaining, employees gain the opportunity to participate in shaping their wages, benefits, working conditions and workplace protections.
The diginity of work is the understanding that all labor has intrinsic value. No occupation is inherently superior to another. Every worker deserves respect, fair treatment, safe working conditions and compensation that allows them to live with dignity.