FUNCTIONS OF UNIONS

A Union is a group of workers coming together through collective bargaining to improve their wages, benefits, and working conditions. Having a unionized workforce ensures that employers comply with labor laws established under National Labor Relations Act, and holds Unions accountable for duty of fair representation. A working contract is established through negotiations between Union representatives and management and this is a legal document enforceable by a grievance procedure that ensures everyone is treated equally without discrimination. A strong Union will make the company stronger, more efficient, and a more pleasant place to work.

WEINGARTEN RIGHTS

Any employee who reasonably believes that an investigatory interview could lead to discipline is entitled to ask for union representation. An investigatory interview is a meeting with management at which the employee will be questioned or asked to explain his or her conduct, and which could lead to disciplinary action. The employer is not obligated to inform employees of their Weingarten rights or to ask whether an employee would like union representation at a meeting or interview. The employee must affirmatively request union representation.

Statement of Weingarten Rights

"If this discussion could in any way lead to my being disciplined or terminated, or affect my personal working condition, I respectfully request that my union representative, officer, or steward be present at this meeting.  Without representation, I choose not to answer any questions."

NEXT GEN

The goal of Next Generation is to build the future of our union by

• Building from within - Educate young/new members about the labor movement and our union. Introduce yound/new members to the structure of our union and a lifetime of activism. Involve more members in all aspects of our union.
• Mentoring - Engage our seasoned members/retirees as mentors to our young/new members
• Building in the community - Educate young members about the importance of collective action. Engage young members in a broad movement for social justice by strengthening bonds with community and civil rights groups, students, and other allies.

MORE INFORMATION AT -  USW.ORG/NEXTGENERATION