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Directions: Work your way down the page. You will notice that your worksheet is organized to correspond with this webpage. Watch each video, fill in your worksheet and take the quizzes on Schoology (There are 4 quizzes). You will notice that the worksheet has the same questions as the quizzes so that it is not twice the work.
Section 1: What is a Labor Union?
ABOUT UNIONS
Unions organized by workers to fight for employee rights and protections, such as a shorter workday and minimum wage, have a long history in the United States. In fact, the first worker strike predates the American Revolution, and the first union was established by Philadelphia shoemakers in 1794. In 1881, the Federation of Organized Trades and Labor Unions was formed, followed five years later by the American Federation of Labor (AFL).
The ultimate negotiating tool of a labor union is a strike. When unions don't get what they want, they often resort to striking. A strike is a labor stoppage and that shuts down the business.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Unions organized by workers to fight for employee rights and protections, such as a shorter workday and minimum wage, have a long history in the United States. In fact, the first worker strike predates the American Revolution, and the first union was established by Philadelphia shoemakers in 1794. In 1881, the Federation of Organized Trades and Labor Unions was formed, followed five years later by the American Federation of Labor (AFL).
The ultimate negotiating tool of a labor union is a strike. When unions don't get what they want, they often resort to striking. A strike is a labor stoppage and that shuts down the business.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- A labor union represents the collective interests of workers, bargaining with employers over such concerns as wages and working conditions.
- Labor unions are specific to industries and work like democracies.
- Labor unions have local chapters, each of which obtains a charter from the national-level organization.
- U.S. law requires an employer to actively bargain with a union in good faith; however, the employer is not required to agree to any specific terms.
- Some labor union contracts have been criticized for making it too difficult to fire incompetent, abusive, and violent employees
- A Strike happens when union workers are not satisfied with something going on in a company (For example: Salary, Worker Treatment)
Directions (Continued): After you watch the first video, take Lesson 28: Quiz A on Schoology. You can preview the questions below.
Section 2: Why Would Someone Want To Join A Labor Union? Why Are They Necessary?
Directions (Continued): After you watch the second video, take Lesson 28: Quiz B on Schoology. You can preview the questions below.
Section 3: Summarize How A Labor Union Works
Labor unions have a democratic structure, holding elections to choose officers who are charged with making decisions that are beneficial to the members. Employees pay dues to the union and, in return, the labor union acts as an advocate on the employees’ behalf. Labor unions are often industry-specific and tend to be most common today among public sector (government) employees and those in transportation and utilities.
To form a union, a locally based group of employees obtains a charter from a national-level labor organization. Two large organizations oversee most of the labor unions in the U.S.—the Change to Win Federation (CtW) and the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO). The AFL-CIO was formed in 1955 after the two groups merged. The CtW spun off from the AFL-CIO in 2005.
Nearly all unions are structured and work in similar ways. U.S. law requires an employer to actively bargain with a union in good faith; however, the employer is not required to agree to any specific terms. Multiple negotiation rounds are conducted between the union’s bargaining unit—a group of members whose duty is to assure that its members are properly compensated and represented—and the employer.
A collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is eventually agreed upon and signed. The CBA outlines pay scales and includes other terms of employment, such as vacation and sick days, benefits, working hours, and working conditions.
After signing the CBA, an employer cannot change the agreement without a union representative’s approval; however, CBAs eventually expire, at which time the labor union and management must negotiate and sign a new agreement.
Directions (Continued): After you watch the third video, take Lesson 28: Quiz C on Schoology. You can preview the questions below.
Section 4: The Labor Movement
Understanding Labor Strikes: A Fight for Workers' Rights
What Is A Labor Strike?
A labor strike is a powerful tool that workers use to express their demands and grievances against employers. It occurs when employees stop working to protest for better working conditions, wages, or benefits. Strikes have been a crucial part of labor movements around the world and have played a significant role in shaping labor laws and workers’ rights.
The concept of a labor strike dates back to ancient times, but it became more prominent during the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century. As factories grew and working conditions often became dangerous and unfair, workers began to organize. They realized that by coming together, they could have a stronger voice and push for change. Strikes were one way to show employers that workers were serious about their demands.
There are different types of strikes. A general strike involves a large number of workers across various industries ceasing work simultaneously. This kind of strike can have a significant impact on the economy and draw attention to workers’ issues. A sympathy strike occurs when workers in one industry stop working in support of workers in another industry who are on strike.
Strikes can be effective in achieving goals. For example, the 1936-1937 Flint Sit-Down Strike in Michigan was pivotal in the labor movement. Workers at the General Motors plant stopped working but occupied the factory, refusing to leave until their demands for better wages and recognition of their union were met. The strike lasted 44 days and ultimately led to significant improvements in workers' rights.
However, strikes can also have consequences. While they aim to create positive change, they can lead to lost wages for workers and tension between employees and employers. In some cases, companies may respond with hiring replacements or using legal means to end the strike.
In the United States, labor strikes have led to important legislation that protects workers. The National Labor Relations Act of 1935, for instance, granted workers the right to organize and engage in collective bargaining, which includes the right to strike. This law helped to ensure that workers could advocate for their needs without fear of retaliation.
In conclusion, labor strikes are a vital part of the history of workers’ rights. They represent the courage of employees to stand up for themselves and demand fair treatment. Understanding labor strikes helps us appreciate the struggles and achievements of workers throughout history and the ongoing fight for fair working conditions today.
What Is A Labor Strike?
A labor strike is a powerful tool that workers use to express their demands and grievances against employers. It occurs when employees stop working to protest for better working conditions, wages, or benefits. Strikes have been a crucial part of labor movements around the world and have played a significant role in shaping labor laws and workers’ rights.
The concept of a labor strike dates back to ancient times, but it became more prominent during the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century. As factories grew and working conditions often became dangerous and unfair, workers began to organize. They realized that by coming together, they could have a stronger voice and push for change. Strikes were one way to show employers that workers were serious about their demands.
There are different types of strikes. A general strike involves a large number of workers across various industries ceasing work simultaneously. This kind of strike can have a significant impact on the economy and draw attention to workers’ issues. A sympathy strike occurs when workers in one industry stop working in support of workers in another industry who are on strike.
Strikes can be effective in achieving goals. For example, the 1936-1937 Flint Sit-Down Strike in Michigan was pivotal in the labor movement. Workers at the General Motors plant stopped working but occupied the factory, refusing to leave until their demands for better wages and recognition of their union were met. The strike lasted 44 days and ultimately led to significant improvements in workers' rights.
However, strikes can also have consequences. While they aim to create positive change, they can lead to lost wages for workers and tension between employees and employers. In some cases, companies may respond with hiring replacements or using legal means to end the strike.
In the United States, labor strikes have led to important legislation that protects workers. The National Labor Relations Act of 1935, for instance, granted workers the right to organize and engage in collective bargaining, which includes the right to strike. This law helped to ensure that workers could advocate for their needs without fear of retaliation.
In conclusion, labor strikes are a vital part of the history of workers’ rights. They represent the courage of employees to stand up for themselves and demand fair treatment. Understanding labor strikes helps us appreciate the struggles and achievements of workers throughout history and the ongoing fight for fair working conditions today.
Directions (Continued): After you watch the fourth video, take Lesson 28: Quiz D on Schoology. You can preview the questions below.
Section 5: Why Have We Seen A Decline In Unionization In The United States?
The Decline of Unionization in the United States
Unionization in the United States has seen a significant decline over the past few decades. This trend has raised concerns among workers and labor advocates who argue that unions play a crucial role in protecting workers' rights and improving working conditions. Understanding the reasons behind this decline is essential for grasping the current labor landscape.
One major factor contributing to the decline in union membership is the shift in the American economy from manufacturing to service-oriented jobs. In the mid-20th century, many unionized workers were employed in factories, where labor unions thrived. However, as manufacturing jobs declined and service industries expanded, many new jobs in sectors like retail, hospitality, and healthcare did not have strong union representation. These jobs often offer lower wages and fewer benefits, making it challenging for workers to advocate for unionization.
Another significant reason for the decline in unionization is the changing attitudes towards unions among workers themselves. Many younger workers may not see the value of joining a union, believing that they can negotiate their pay and benefits without collective bargaining. Additionally, there has been a rise in anti-union sentiments, often fueled by employers who discourage union activities. Some companies actively engage in practices to prevent unionization, such as intimidation tactics or misleading information about the implications of joining a union.
Legislation has also played a critical role in the decline of unions. Over the years, various laws and policies have made it more difficult for unions to organize and operate effectively. For example, the passage of Right-to-Work laws in several states has weakened the power of unions by allowing workers to benefit from union negotiations without having to pay union dues. This can lead to a decrease in funding for unions, making it harder for them to advocate for workers' rights.
Moreover, globalization has influenced labor markets in the United States. Many companies have moved jobs overseas to take advantage of cheaper labor costs, which has reduced the number of unionized jobs available domestically. As companies seek to maximize profits, they may prioritize flexibility over worker stability, further diminishing the role of unions.
In conclusion, the decline in unionization in the United States is a complex issue influenced by economic shifts, changing worker attitudes, legislative challenges, and globalization. While unions have historically played a vital role in advocating for workers' rights, the current landscape presents significant barriers to their growth and influence. Understanding these factors is essential for anyone interested in the future of labor in America.
Unionization in the United States has seen a significant decline over the past few decades. This trend has raised concerns among workers and labor advocates who argue that unions play a crucial role in protecting workers' rights and improving working conditions. Understanding the reasons behind this decline is essential for grasping the current labor landscape.
One major factor contributing to the decline in union membership is the shift in the American economy from manufacturing to service-oriented jobs. In the mid-20th century, many unionized workers were employed in factories, where labor unions thrived. However, as manufacturing jobs declined and service industries expanded, many new jobs in sectors like retail, hospitality, and healthcare did not have strong union representation. These jobs often offer lower wages and fewer benefits, making it challenging for workers to advocate for unionization.
Another significant reason for the decline in unionization is the changing attitudes towards unions among workers themselves. Many younger workers may not see the value of joining a union, believing that they can negotiate their pay and benefits without collective bargaining. Additionally, there has been a rise in anti-union sentiments, often fueled by employers who discourage union activities. Some companies actively engage in practices to prevent unionization, such as intimidation tactics or misleading information about the implications of joining a union.
Legislation has also played a critical role in the decline of unions. Over the years, various laws and policies have made it more difficult for unions to organize and operate effectively. For example, the passage of Right-to-Work laws in several states has weakened the power of unions by allowing workers to benefit from union negotiations without having to pay union dues. This can lead to a decrease in funding for unions, making it harder for them to advocate for workers' rights.
Moreover, globalization has influenced labor markets in the United States. Many companies have moved jobs overseas to take advantage of cheaper labor costs, which has reduced the number of unionized jobs available domestically. As companies seek to maximize profits, they may prioritize flexibility over worker stability, further diminishing the role of unions.
In conclusion, the decline in unionization in the United States is a complex issue influenced by economic shifts, changing worker attitudes, legislative challenges, and globalization. While unions have historically played a vital role in advocating for workers' rights, the current landscape presents significant barriers to their growth and influence. Understanding these factors is essential for anyone interested in the future of labor in America.
This is A Link To A More In Depth Video (It is not necessary for you to watch this unless if you want to know more about the topic): CLICK HERE
Directions (Continued): After you read the text in this section, take Lesson 28: Quiz E on Schoology. You can preview the questions below.