Be Aware of Common Myths
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Because of the difficulty to legally discourage unions through direct intervention, your employer many resort to using myths, distortions, and lies to persuade employees from organizing a union in the workplace. If your employer spreads any of the following rumors, recognize that they are inaccurate and inform your fellow workers of these facts:
MYTH: Union dues aren't worth it. FACT: The goal of union dues is to allow successful bargaining that is effective enough that the increased wages and improved work conditions you see as a union member exceed the cost of membership. Dues provide the means to pay for the resources to keep the union in daily working order and provide union representatives who represent the members during collective bargaining. Union dues also help pay the cost of attorney fees associated with collective bargaining and resolving grievances or arbitration's that ensure workers are being treated fairly. MYTH: Employees who support the Union will lose their job before they can form a union. FACT: It's illegal to fire or punish someone because of his or her union sympathies. MYTH: By joining a union, you'll lose the benefits you have now. FACT: It's illegal for employers to withdraw benefits because of employees' interest in union organization. Your current wages and benefits stay in effect until the members of the bargaining unit (that includes you) decide on a different contract. The union's goal is to better the employee by increased wages and benefits. The union will represent you to ensure your employer does not reduce your current work conditions, wages and benefits. MYTH: You'll lose everything when you're forced to go on strike. FACT: Strikes are exceedingly RARE. Only about 1% of contract negotiations through out the USA result in a strike. Although strikes are an 'option' when the employer and union are unable to come to a fair agreeable contract, the union strives to avoid having the bargaining unit go on strike. We want the members working and receiving all available benefits. Strikes are never forced by the union, the bargaining unit members decide to proceed to strike and all members vote to determine if a strike shall occur. Learn the Benefits of Joining a Union |
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