Why do people join unions?

Workers join unions for many reasons, but one overriding reason prevails: to improve their jobs.

As union members, workers possess a power to face and stand up to their employers that they would never have as individuals. Union contracts – negotiated by experienced union leaders and rank and file members – provide workers with a legally binding document that spells out nearly all terms and conditions of their employment. Wages and wage progression, benefits, vacation, scheduling of hours, disciplinary procedures, and much more are all specified in the contract… leaving no opportunity for an employer to unjustly treat, discipline, or terminate any union employee.

Workers join unions to gain a voice on the job, and to be treated with dignity. They join for the peace of mind that comes with knowing they cannot be terminated because a supervisor wants to free up more payroll hours, or simply dislikes them. They join for the security; for better benefits; for higher wages and guaranteed raises. They join for themselves and they join for their families. Workers join unions to become a member of a new family of union brothers and sisters who are united in their quest for a better livelihood and a better life.