FAQ

Can I get fired if I join a union?

Legally, no. Under the National Labor Relations Act, workers have the right to form unions and engage in collective bargaining without fear of retaliation. However, this cannot stop employers from terminating through other reasons like job performance, attendance, or adherence to company policies.

What are union dues? Are they expensive?

Union dues are generally a small percentage of our salary that is offset by negotiated wage increases.

We set our own system, and dues don't kick in until contract negotiation concludes. These dues go towards benefits that the union provides such as legal representation, bargaining power, and contract benefits.

Will a union actually make a difference?

Yes! The difference will be made through the collective efforts of the workers and the union through the negotiation of a contract with our employer that is legally binding. This gives us the opportunity to have a heard and protected voice in our workplace.

What can we include in our contract?

Nearly anything involving our workplace conditions (wages, benefits, wrongful terminations, hours, volume of staff, accommodations, etc.).

Why would a nonprofit need a union?

Nonprofit organizations can still be exploitative. This can be seen in the wage disparities between high and low level positions, who is hired and fired, and mistreatment of employees. Collective bargaining is a collaborative effort and allows employees to work with employers in achieving similar goals. It is not an attack on our employers, it is a means to have a platform to have our voices heard and actual change implemented on our behalf.

What does striking mean?

Striking is an organized and collective work stoppage by employees. It is a last resort type of action that can be taken if contract negotiations are drawn out by the employer. 

How to handle workplace retaliation?

• Unless the meeting is deemed mandatory, you have the right to leave.

  • "For legal and personal reasons, I do not feels comfortable answering that at the moment, until I do more research."

• Employees are not obliged to disclose their union membership status, as it is inappropriate for employers to inquire about it.

  • "I don't feel comfortable answering that" or "I don't know."

• If you cannot remove yourself from the situation, document the conversation.

  • Write down other staff who were there, what was said, and the exact time.

• If you are pulled into a meeting by yourself, you may ask for other employees to be present if you are uncomfortable.

• Under the National Labor Relations Act, employers are allowed to express their personal opinions about unions, but must not coerce employees to express theirs.

• Employers will use a "carrot and stick" method to provide temporary fixes on issues, gather intelligence on union, raise pay, exaggerate misinformation on unions or budget, or intimidate employees to feel scared or paralyzed to take action.