Organizing a Union

Career Readiness

Unions

2.2 min

Updated Jan. 31, 2024

Collective representation, particularly via a union, can benefit workers seeking to improve their workplace conditions and rights. A union is an organized group of workers who collectively negotiate with their employer. Workers typically seek to organize when they feel their rights, wages, or working conditions are not adequately protected or addressed by their employer.

CORE CONTENT | 1.6 min read

Process Overview

Union organizing is a multifaceted engagement and requires strategic planning and execution. Though the specifics may vary, the general process will follow somewhat along these lines:

Identifying Need or Desire

There are many situations in which unions are an appealing option. For example, if you and your coworkers face unfair wages, poor working conditions, or lack of benefits, a union can be a solution. That said, you may be compelled to start a union primarily to strengthen the voices of yourself and your colleagues; workplace exploitation is not a prerequisite for union membership. Nonetheless, this process is a democratic one, and it will likely not be useful if there is not a general interest in unionization.

Building Support Among Colleagues

At the beginning of pursuing unionization, much of the “rallying” happens through private conversations, both to connect with coworkers and avoid employer interference. This is when workers start conversing about the benefits of a union and sharing their concerns. A small group of dedicated employees will often coordinate union organizing activities. By the end of this phase, if deciding to move forward, workers should be unified in their decision to move forward together.

Selecting a Union Affiliation

After appropriate research, workers decide whether to join an existing union or form a new one. Factors like industry relevance, the support offered by the existing unions, and the specific needs of the affected workplace should be considered. Whether joining or creating a union, connecting with existing union representatives helps garner support and resources.

Filing and Voting

A petition must be filed with the NLRB to hold a union representation election. This requires signatures from a significant percentage of eligible workers (typically 30%). Afterward, a secret ballot election among the workers commences. Official recognition of the union with the NLRB requires a majority vote.

Possible Challenges

  • Employer resistance, which can range from subtle discouragement to overt union-busting tactics.
  • Legal complexities, including navigating the NLRB processes and meeting various legal requirements.
  • Internal disagreements among workers about the need for or type of union representation.

REAL WORLD EXAMPLE | 0.3 min read

In March 2022, Amazon workers in a Staten Island, New York warehouse successfully voted to form the Amazon Labor Union (ALU)—a historic unionization effort that received national coverage. In hopes of overturning the vote, Amazon quickly filed upwards of 20 objections to the unionization. In 2023, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) overruled those objections and officially certified the Amazon Labor Union.

KEY TAKEAWAYS | 0.4 min read

  • Unions are organized groups of workers who collectively negotiate with their employers.
  • Unions are started to negotiate for better conditions and strengthen the voices of employees; workplace exploitation is not a prerequisite for union membership.
  • Union organizing is a multifaceted process that requires strategic planning and democratic engagement.
  • The process can prove challenging, especially if your employer is hostile to union efforts. Making use of local labor organizers and nonprofits providing free assistance and guidance can make the process easier.

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