Why you need a union

HOW TO FORM A UNION

Under current labor law, joining a union is more difficult than it should be. Generally, when a majority of workers at a worksite signify they want a union (by signing cards or a petition), the National Labor Relations Board sets up an election. (The National Mediation Board does this for airline and railroad workers.) Too often, though, employers fight to block workers' freedom to choose a union. Employers that recognize the value of working collaboratively with workers sometimes agree to remain neutral and allow workers to form their union by signing cards rather than going through a formal election process.

The first step is to contact the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers & Grain Millers Local No. 36G's organizing department at 716-852-3663.  Your call will be confidential.  We are available to answer your questions about forming a union.

Does the law protect workers joining unions?

It’s supposed to—but too often it doesn’t. Under the law, employers are not allowed to discriminate against or fire workers for choosing to join a union. For example, it’s illegal for employers to threaten to shut down their businesses or to fire employees or take away benefits if workers form a union. However, employers routinely violate these laws, and the penalties are weak or nonexistent.

What kinds of workers are forming unions today?

A wider range of people than ever before, including many women and immigrants, is joining unions—doctors and nurses, poultry workers and graduate employees, home health care aides and wireless communications workers, auto parts workers and engineers, to name a few.