That Union Thing
What is a union, anyway? In some ways it's like your local
neighborhood association-a voluntary organization of people banding together
working toward common interests. Unions were created by workers to promote the
interests of workers-working peoples' only organized voice in dealings with
management.
In this world of disposable employees, downsizing, subcontracting, and job
insecurity, unions are there to give workers some say in workplace issues, and
to give them strength and dignity. Unions force employers to shift their
awareness from the bottom line and back to employee welfare.
What have Unions accomplished? Forty-hour work weeks, minimum wages, job safety
laws, and protection from firing for other than just cause are just some of the
social reforms initiated by Unions.
Unions are not just for blue-collar employees, either. Medical professionals,
teachers, technical professionals, and even athletes have realized that Unions
enable them to protect their livelihood by taking their jobs into their own
hands. Over the next several months, this column will look into where Unions
have come from, what they have done, and where they are going. Stay tuned!
Coming in future installments…
- Right to Work...what is it all about?
- The history of the American Labor movement and the AFM
- What are your rights? ...Cliffs Notes of Labor Law
- What is a Collective Bargaining agreement, and how do I get one?
Union News
Delta Air Lines pilots face a potential strike as contract
negotiations have broken off. Talks began in September of 1999 and their
contract expired last May. Pilots are seeking unified pay scales, better wages,
and better retirement benefits. Management has so far chosen not to address or
compromise on key issues.
Locally, some 125 employees of VECTours of Florida Inc., who transport
passengers between cruise ships and airports in Fort Lauderdale and Miami, voted
overwhelmingly for Union representation.