Union membership on rise, especially among younger generations

A Sea Change in Organized Labor

Introduction to the Current Labor Movement

• The speaker emphasizes a significant shift occurring within organized labor, likening it to a "sea change" as more unions gain traction and visibility.

• This transformation is particularly notable around Labor Day 2023, highlighting a moment of celebration for unions.

Growth of Union Membership

• Organized labor has experienced substantial growth, with over a quarter of a million workers joining unions in the past year.

• This increase marks one of the most significant gains for organized labor in decades, indicating a resurgence in union interest and participation.

Empowerment of Rank-and-File Members

• The power dynamics within unions are shifting; the strength now derives from rank-and-file members rather than leadership at the top.

• The speaker stresses that negotiations and contracts begin with workers' collective action, underscoring their essential role in driving union efforts.

Recent Strikes and Collective Action

• A recent threat of strikes against UPS by Teamsters illustrates this newfound power among workers, showcasing their readiness to advocate for better conditions.

• The planning and practice for potential strikes reflect an active engagement from union members who are prepared to assert their rights.

Strike Against UPS: Teamsters' Preparations and Settlement

Planning for the Strike

• The Teamsters had been planning and practicing for a strike against UPS for over a year, with a strong membership of 340,000.

• Just two weeks before the scheduled strike, a settlement was reached, preventing the planned action.

Details of the Settlement

• The settlement was not solely focused on wages; it encompassed a wide range of issues including benefits and safety measures.

• Key safety concerns addressed in the settlement included heat-related safety protocols, particularly air conditioning in trucks. This was highlighted as a significant victory for workers.

Labor Day Significance: A Silver Anniversary

Unions Gathering Together

• This year marks the 25th anniversary of unions gathering together on Labor Day in Tucson to commemorate labor rights and achievements.

• Unlike previous years that focused on minimizing losses, this year's discussions centered around sustaining gains made by unions over time.

Focus on Future Generations

• There is an emphasis on engaging younger generations in labor movements; first-time entry workers are seen as crucial to future union efforts. Over 80% of Millennials and Gen Z support joining labor unions.

• Addressing generational gaps within the workforce is essential for maintaining momentum in labor advocacy and ensuring continued support for unionization efforts among younger workers.

Labor Union Support Among Younger Generations

High Support for Labor Unions

• Over 80% of Millennials and Gen Z express support for joining a labor union, indicating a strong interest in collective bargaining.

• The ability to join a labor union is highlighted as a significant challenge for today's union leadership, reflecting the complexities of modern labor dynamics.

Historical Context of Union Membership

• The "heyday" of union membership is described as either a distant memory or an experience unknown to younger generations, emphasizing generational gaps in labor history.

• Many young individuals lack direct memories of robust union activity, which shapes their current perceptions and expectations regarding workplace rights.

Changing Workplace Dynamics

• The contemporary workplace has evolved significantly, presenting new challenges and opportunities for collective action among younger workers.

• There is an emerging vision among younger generations about what collective bargaining can achieve, particularly in response to recent socio-political changes.

Impact of Recent Events on Union Activity

• Following the fall of Roe v. Wade, there was a notable increase in unions across the country negotiating over reproductive rights, showcasing how political events can galvanize labor movements.

• This surge in negotiations reflects broader societal issues that resonate with younger workers' values and priorities.

Negotiating Reproductive Rights in 2023

The Importance of Bargaining Over Reproductive Rights

• Emphasizes the necessity for individuals to negotiate and bargain over reproductive rights with their employers, highlighting that these negotiations can lead to legally binding agreements.

• Discusses how bargaining over reproductive rights is not just a personal issue but a collective movement that has gained traction across the country in recent years.

Success of the Union Movement

• Notes that the union movement has seen significant success in 2023, marking it as a "banner year" for adding new members, more than any time in the last 25 years.

• Highlights the ongoing conversation about sustaining this momentum within unions and labor movements, particularly during community events like picnics.

Sustaining Momentum Forward

• Addresses strategies on how to maintain and build upon the current momentum of union activities and member engagement going forward.

• Mentions specific gatherings (e.g., at Kennedy Park on the Southside) where discussions are taking place regarding future actions and strategies for sustaining progress.