How To Start a Union
What is a Union?
A Union is a group of workers who join together in their workplace to win:
- A voice on the job
- Better wages and benefits
- The right to negotiate with Fred Meyer as equals about workplace conditions
How do Unions help working families?
Through Unions, workers win better wages, benefits and a voice on the job - and strong Unions mean better workplaces. Union workers earn ____ more than non-union workers and are more likely to have better healthcare and retirement benefits, such as pensions, than those without a Union. Unions lead the fight to improve the lives of all workers. In addition to increased wages and benefits, Unions advocate for policies such as medical leave, family leave, fair trade agreements and "Made in America" provisions, and improved safety and health protections on the job.
What have Unions accomplished for workers?
Unions fought for and won:
- Laws to end child labor
- Laws establishing overtime after eight hours per day
- Protections for workers' health and safety (OSHA)
- Social Security
- Minimum Wage
- Unemployment Insurance
What workers are joining Unions today?
Today, the United States is seeing a revival in workers organizing unions in their workplace - nurses, hotel workers, construction workers, retail workers, grocery store workers, tech workers, journalists, and even professional athletes are among those forming unions.
From Starbucks to the NFL, Americans understand that a union is the best way to win a better workplace.
From Starbucks to the NFL, Americans understand that a union is the best way to win a better workplace.
Why a UFCW 1496 Union contract?
A UFCW Local 1496 contract spells out wages and benefits in a signed and binding document that YOU get to help negotiate. However, it also guarantees some additional protections:
- Seniority - protection for layoffs, hours of work, recall rights, etc.
- Discharge and discrimination - states that no employee is to be disciplined without "Just Cause."
- Grievance procedure - ensures that your employer shows no favoritism or discrimination, and protects your contractual rights.
- Leaves of absence - Funeral leave, Jury Duty, Etc.