There are many benefits to being in a union.
From higher wages and better working conditions to job security and a voice in the workplace, unions help workers achieve the American Dream.
Here are the top ten benefits of being in a union.
1. Higher wages
Union members earn, on average, 52.1% more than non-union workers.
They are also more likely to have employer-provided health insurance, a pension, and other important benefits.
In fact, 98% of union members have health insurance compared to only 86% of non-union workers.
And, union members are more likely to have paid sick days, which is important for both the worker and public health.
2. Job security
Unions help protect workers from arbitrary or unjust firing, discrimination, and other bad employer practices.
They have the right to grieve an unjust firing with their employer and have their case heard by an impartial third party.
Unions also help ensure that employees are treated fairly and given opportunities for training and advancement based on merit rather than favoritism.
3. A voice in the workplace
Union members have a say in their workplace through the collective bargaining process.
They can negotiate for better working conditions, pay, and benefits without fear of retaliation from their employer.
They can also elect their own representatives to fight for their interests at the bargaining table and in the political arena.
4. Better working conditions
Union members can negotiate for safer working conditions and a healthier workplace.
Through the collective bargaining process, unions have helped secure important safety regulations like the 8-hour workday, overtime pay, and bans on child labor.
Unions also help ensure that workers have a comfortable and dignified workplace by negotiating for things like air conditioning, ergonomic furniture, and private bathrooms.
5. Equal treatment
Union contracts often include provisions that prohibit discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or other factors.
This means that union members are more likely to be treated fairly in the workplace regardless of their background.
Members can also file grievances if they feel they have been unfairly discriminated against at work.
6. Retirement security
Union members are more likely to have a pension than non-union workers.
A pension provides a guaranteed income in retirement, which is especially important given the rising costs of health care and other expenses.
They negotiate for retiree health care benefits, which are becoming increasingly rare in the private sector.
7. Advancement opportunities
They have access to job training and education programs that can help them improve their skills and advance in their careers.
These programs are often paid for by the employer, which means that union members don’t have to bear the cost of upgrading their skills.
8. Time off
Union contracts often include provisions for paid vacation days, holidays, and sick days.
It provides workers with much-needed time to rest and recover from work-related stress.
It also allows workers to spend time with their families and pursue leisure activities, which is important for both physical and mental health.
9. A sense of pride and solidarity
Union membership gives workers a sense of pride and solidarity.
Union members know that they are part of something larger than themselves and that they are fighting for the rights of all workers, not just their own.
This sense of camaraderie can be especially important in difficult times, such as when a company is going through layoffs or plant closure.
10. A better future
When union members win better wages and benefits, it sets a precedent that raises the standard of living for all workers.
This is especially important at a time when income inequality is at historic levels.
They know that their fight for better working conditions is not just about themselves, but about ensuring that all workers have a voice in the workplace and can earn a decent living.
Conclusion
Union membership has declined in recent years, but there are still many good reasons to join a union.
They have higher wages and better benefits than non-union workers, and they have a say in their workplace through the collective bargaining process.
They also have access to job training and education programs, and they can negotiate for better working conditions, pay, and benefits.
Most importantly, union membership gives workers a sense of pride and solidarity.
When union members win, it sets a precedent that raises the standard of living for all workers.