Keeping the Playing Field Level
In 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court in Janus v. AFSCME could take away the ability of public sector unions to collect fair share fees for the services they provide, and therefore the freedom of—and opportunity for—working people to join together in strong unions. The forces behind this case—billionaire CEOs and corporate interests—do not believe that workers should have the same freedoms and opportunities as they do: to negotiate a fair return on work so that everyday Americans can provide for themselves and their families, and have a true shot at achieving the American dream.
A ruling in favor of those who oppose unions could impose “right-to-work” on the entire public sector, jeopardizing the invaluable contributions strong unions make.
- Unions use their collective voice to advocate for policies that benefit all working people—like increases to the minimum wage, affordable health care, and great public schools.
- Unions raise wages for union and nonunion workers.
- When union membership is high, entire communities enjoy wages that represent a fair return on their work and greater social and economic mobility.
- Strong unions advocate for equal opportunities and fair pay for women and communities of color. Discrimination and prejudice have helped to systematically disadvantage both.
- Through collective bargaining, members of strong unions are scoring victories that help entire communities—like smaller classroom sizes so that students get the help and attention they need, and reliable public services that help to stabilize communities and families.
- Unions are more important than ever—and Americans know it. New Gallup research shows that more than 3 in 5 Americans have a favorable view of labor unions. That’s the highest level in nearly 15 years. Among young people, support is even stronger.
- As union membership has decreased because of attacks on working people, income inequality has risen in the U.S.
