Fight for Workers’ Rights!
Labor unions have existed since the very beginning of America. Quite simply, the associations served to protect members’ rights. Workers learned that if they banded together, they could negotiate from a position of strength for better wages and improved conditions.
Throughout American history, labor unions have exerted a positive influence. They helped to create the Department of Labor, end abusive child labor practices and pass civil rights legislation. In fact, they became known as the backbone of the working class, and in 1979 union members in the U.S. were 21 million strong.
But in the past four decades, our backbone has grown weak. Membership in unions has decreased, and Americans are working harder than ever, but reaping an ever-decreasing percentage of profits. Since 1979, productivity has increased by more than 60% nationwide. And wages? A miserable 17.5% when adjusted for inflation.
