A Valentine for U.S. Workers

It seems entirely appropriate that the House Education and Labor Committee consider the Employees Free Choice Act on Valentine's Day. This valentine for U.S. workers, H.R. 800, would establish a system that would enable employees to form, join, or assist labor organizations and allow mandatory injunctions for unfair labor practices during organizing efforts.

Why do workers need H.R. 800?

Because the struggle for workers' rights continues -- even today. Article 23 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights expressly addresses human rights in the work place. It specifically articulates the idea that workers have the right to form and join a trade union. Around the world and here in the United States this human right is under attack.

H.R. 800, the Employees Free Choice Act, is sponsored by Rep. George Miller of California and has 233 co-sponsors. (Party representation in the House is 233 Democrats and 202 Republicans.) I hope the Education and Labor Committee sends H.R. 800 to the House floor for a positive vote! Then, it's on to the Senate, where the political party representation (49 Democrats, 49 Republicans, one Independent Democrat and one Independent), Senate rules, and Senate traditions may slow the progress of this bill. We are forewarned and so, prepared to urge senators' positive action on this proposed law.

Background of labor movement history in the United States
A visit to this next site reminds us that the great struggle by U.S. workers to improve their lot began very early in our history.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, primitive unions and guilds were early attempts to secure improved working conditions. By the middle of of the 19th century, the Nation Labor Union was created, followed by the Knights of Labor in 1869. The 1894 Pullman Strike, though, focused in sharp relief the muscle used by corporations with government to break strikes using moral authority, military force, and compliant judges.

In 1902, the United Mine Workers strike idled more than 100,000 workers. President Theodore Roosevelt intervened and appointed a commission of mediation and arbitration. Five days later, the miners returned to their jobs and, five months later, the presidential commission awarded them a 10 percent wage increase and shorter work days.

Do workers benefit when they join a union?
According to UNITE HERE!, the union that represents UUSC staff members, union workers earn better wages, have better pensions, health care, and disability plans. View more information compiled by UNITE HERE!