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UE members know that US labor law is stacked against workers–boss law, as some people call it. The best way to win what workers need is to organize together and put pressure on the boss. But it can still be good to know where we can use the law to our advantage. Stewards should understand how workplace rights have changed so they can talk with members about it if it comes up.
How often have we heard coworkers complain that coming to work makes them sick? How many times has a steward had to intervene on behalf of a worker who blew up at a boss or walked off the job? How often do people continue to work at full speed, despite suffering from pain or injuries because they are afraid of losing their job? These are symptoms of workplace stress.
There is a major difference between member-driven political action based on sound UE principles, and “playing politics” with lawmakers and candidates. With critical national and state elections coming up on November 5 every UE steward and leader must take some time to become familiar with our union program, as well as the nuts and bolts of the electoral system. While for some people political discussions can be controversial and stressful, as unionists we have to participate in the political process to protect what we have worked so hard to negotiate at the bargaining table. These days, union political action is a necessity, not a choice.
The adventure story of the battles, betrayals and victories of American working men and women. An extensively researched, yet highly readable, history of the U.S. labor movement from the Civil War through the Eisenhower Administration.
MorePublished in 2020, “Them and Us Unionism” draws on UE history to identify five core principles of UE’s approach: aggressive struggle, rank and file control, political independence, international solidarity, and uniting all workers. Available as a 24-page booklet, PDF or on the web
MoreThis 2022 e-book by retired UE Director of International Affairs Robin Alexander tells the story of the partnership between the UE and the Mexican Frente Auténtico del Trabajo (FAT), a story that is a testimony to the power of rank-and-file solidarity.
MoreMore books and publications available at the UE Online Store »