Summer 2009

Why we organize: building a better union for members

Sometimes members ask me why unions put so much emphasis on organizing new workers.

The answer is simple: Bringing new workers into the union helps raise the living standards of those workers and protects the living standards of current members.

New members discover that their wages are better, they begin to be eligible for a pension, they now have guaranteed health benefits and they have protection against arbitrary and unfair treatment at the workplace.

Current union members benefit because successful organizing connects directly with success in contract negotiations.

When non-union employers provide lower wages and inferior benefits, they can cut into the business of union stores and hurt our ability to negotiate the best possible contracts for our members.

That's why we are committed to "organize, organize and then organize some more." The bigger we are, the stronger we become. The better numbers we have, the better our contracts will be.

Recent research shows that some 60 million U.S. workers would join a union if they could. This provides a great opportunity for unions to gain strength and influence.

Participation is key to future union growth

To help us in our organizing efforts, we must marshal support for the Employee Free Choice Act. If and when it becomes law, EFCA would level the playing field for workers and restore their freedom to choose a union.

We also strengthen our union when we participate directly in organizing campaigns. Here is how you can help right now: If you know a worker who is not protected by a union contract, explain to him or her the benefits of being a union member. Talk about the better wages, job security and working conditions that you enjoy because you belong to UFCW Local 152.

You can also work with our union's staff to contact workers and talk to them about organizing their workplaces. If you are interested, please contact your union representative.

Your participation can help add strength to the union family and contribute to a better future for everyone who earns a paycheck.

Sincerely,

Brian String
President