Build Power at Work
When workers stand together, they can improve wages, benefits, safety, respect and dignity on the job. Learn the difference a union can make, understand your rights, and connect with a union organizer.
The Union Difference
Union workers typically earn higher wages, pay less for healthcare, receive stronger retirement benefits, and have greater job protections than nonunion workers.
| Health Insurance Comparison | Union Workers | Nonunion Workers |
|---|---|---|
| Access to Employer Health Insurance | 95% | 71% |
| Employer Contribution Toward Premiums | 86% | 79% |
| Average Worker Share of Family Coverage | 20% | 31% |
| Access to Retirement Benefits | 95% | 72% |
| Access to Paid Sick Leave | 91% | 73% |
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Economic Policy Institute, and Employee Benefit Research Institute.
Steps to Forming a Union
Not represented by a union, but want to be? The process starts with workers coming together and building support.
- Get together with co-workers who share an interest in organizing.
- Talk to a union organizer to learn the next steps.
- Build support with your co-workers.
- Show majority support through an election or card-check process.
Once a union has been certified or recognized, the employer is required to bargain over your wages, benefits, and working conditions with your union representative.
Your Rights Under the Law
Federal and state law protects workers who support forming a union or engage in union activity.
You have the right to:
- Join or help organize a union without being harassed or punished by your employer.
- Meet during lunch or break time in non-work areas.
- Talk about the union and distribute union materials on non-work time in non-work areas.
- Attend union meetings and wear union buttons in most cases.
- Hold demonstrations and rallies about workplace issues.
Your employer may not:
- Fire, discipline, lay off, or cut your hours for supporting the union.
- Spy, or pretend to spy, on your union activities.
- Threaten or question you about the union.
- Deny your right to participate in forming a union.
- Pressure you not to join a union.
Contact a Union Organizer
Get started now to learn how to improve your workplace and build worker power. Your information is kept strictly confidential. We will never share your details with your employer.