So, Who Joins Unions?

• Workers who are democratic by nature and want collective action
• Workers who want fair work contracts and conditions
• Workers who enjoy the camaraderie of colleagues without fear
• Workers who need help dealing with superiors
• Workers who want representation during disciplinary proceedings
• Workers who want consistency and sustainability in the workplace

Why Join a Union:

• Builds labor power through solidarity.
• Unions can help change policy at Federal/State level.
• Co-ops may access extra benefits for members through union membership.
• Unions provide information on prevailing wages.
• Collective Bargaining Agreement can manage many policies and Union can provide vetting for fairness.
• Unions provide “watchdog” on both management and board

How Do Unions Do?

• Have the common interest of members in mind
• Membership is active not passive
• An expectation of participation
• Leadership creates opportunities for participation
• These activities are governed and initiated democratically by member interests and needs
• Members voice their needs through meetings, surveys, one-on-ones, serving on the Executive Committee, and more. Members keep in touch through meetings, newsletters, word of mouth, email lists, and reports

Why Union Dues?

Unions need financial resources in order to support our members- from trainings to representation in legal cases.  Dues are set by members so that we have a strong and organized voice. 

• Membership in Umbrella Union and Affiliations
• Negotiating Contracts
• Legal support to enforce contracts and grievances
• Release time payments for Executive Committee members
• Professional and Collegial Development
  • Year-End Party celebrating Retirees
  • Holidays Social Event
  • Conferences and Certifications
• Advocacy
  • Buttons, T-Shirts
  • Traditional Media
  • Social Media
• Technical Infrastructure
  • Website
  • Printing
  • Insurance and Bank Fees
• Direct Assistance
  • Donations to injured/sick members
  • Donations to campus food bank

Future Section – Timeline of our local accomplishments as a union