FAQ

What is a Union?

A Union is a group of workers who join together to achieve better wages and benefits, respect on the job (including fair and equal treatment), and a voice in workplace decisions. Imagine yourself going to your Employer and asking for a raise, increased vacation time or to argue over unequal treatment. You probably wouldn’t get very far and that’s why you are here. Now imagine all of your co-workers approaching the boss. You would then have a much better chance because there is power in numbers. That’s when, with the help of a union, workers can negotiate a contract with their employer to secure these things.

Unions counter-balance the unchecked power of employers. Without a union, management has the complete authority to make all decisions. Unions give workers a voice on the job about respect, safety, security, pay, benefits and other working conditions – and about the best ways to get the work done. That helps workers, employers and customers. That’s the Union Advantage.

How do people form a Union?

When workers decide they want to come together to improve their jobs, they look to the union for help. Once a majority of workers show they want a union, sometimes employers honor the workers’ choice. Often, the workers must ask the government to hold an election. If the workers win their union, they negotiate a contract with the employer that spells out each party’s rights and responsibilities in the workplace.

Does the law protect workers joining unions?

The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) states and defines the rights of employees to organize and to bargain collectively with their employers through representatives of their own choosing. To ensure that employees can freely choose their own representatives for the purpose of collective bargaining, the Act establishes a procedure by which they can exercise their choice at a secret-ballot election conducted by the National Labor Relations Board.

Where do I start?

Click on the “Join Us” link above and follow the instructions.