The basic principle of collective bargaining is simple: Together we are strong, separate we are weak. Unions were birthed out of shear necessity. The bosses in these plants were forcing our labor forefathers to work in disgusting and dangerous conditions for poverty wages. Only the power of withholding our collective labor helped change the balance of power. Afterwhile, union membership had grown exponentially, reaching its peak in 1983 with a staggering 20.1% membership rate across the U.S. But then the tide turned, and corporate greed won. This story should sound familiar…
“History doesn’t repeat, but it oftentimes rhymes.”
As we have watched a dwindling membership over the decades, we were once again forced to grow. With an apathetic membership and huge industry shifts the UAW is emerging as the resilient leaders in labor. Due to the recent wins, we are seeing a resurgence in morale, membership and much more engagement. However, this goodwill is only fleeting if we don’t continue the fight.
“There is a direct relationship between the ballot box and the bread box…”
— UAW President Walter Reuther
We have done amazing work, however, that can all be erased in our legislative halls. On February 6, 2017, anti-labor Missouri politicians passed a statewide Right-to-work bill. This bill was designed to diminish union membership, foster low wage jobs, and weaken the labor fight…
One problem — they didn’t consider that we are built to fight!
After galvanizing all of the labor community and energizing the public, labor groups procured approximately 310,000 signatures to force a general ballot initiative. On August 8, 2018, Proposition A was resoundingly rejected (33% Yes -67% No) in the state of Missouri. The people had spoken and the message was clear… Missouri is a UNION TOWN!
Why is this important?
National politics are messy. Hell, all politics are messy. We often find ourselves faced with a lesser of two evils proposition — and no one loves that. However, I encourage you all to take a simple approach…
VOTE LABOR!
In a world of partisan politics, is difficult to overlook the “R.” or the “D.” accompanying our politicians’ names. That intrenched tribalism hasn’t worked out great for the working-people of this nation. Let’s turn our attention to a few more letters, U-A-W. We don’t care what party you pledge to – we care whether you pledge to be a strong voice in favor of Unions.
From here on, support those that support US. Support those that Vote for and promote Union Legislation. Support representatives that will stand with the working class and not corporate greed. Alone, one “VOTE” is relatively inconsequential… On the other hand, united “VOTES” pack the political power to completely reshape our lively hoods. After all, even the weak become strong when they are united.
As always, In Solidarity,
UAW Local 31 President Dontay M. Wilson
