WHAT IS A UNION?
Joseph DeCinti, Vice President, SEIU/NAGE Local 282
Sometimes, whenever grievances, work situations and concerns are won or resolved, members tell me, “Thank God we’ve got a union to protect us.” Have you ever asked yourself, “What is a union?” A dictionary may define a union as an alliance (unity) of persons or parties, especially an alliance of workers formed to advance their pay and working conditions.
But why is a union different from some other kind of organization? Dedicated public servants, who are often under-appreciated, need a support network. Sometimes casual support and encouragement from fellow members is all that is necessary to help us resolve problems at work. Then there are times when we more support and contractual expertise to resolve a workplace situation. A hundred years of American labor law gives workers the right to bargain collectively so that they may have a more equal relationship with their employers. Your union membership and contract give you strength and protection on the job that non-union workers do not have.
SEIU/NAGE provides excellent support to our members through dedicated stewards, attorneys, representatives and other officers ensuring that your rights are protected and your voice is heard. During stressful and difficult times, the need for us tostay united grows stronger. The need for us to be informed grows stronger. The need for us to be active in our union grows stronger. We all know the old saying that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link.
Let me assure you that there are no weak links in NAGE! We are all proud of our strength and our accomplishments. The more we are challenged, the stronger we become.
What is a union? It is us: Stronger Together. United we’ll stand. Stand proud!