What is a Union?
A union is an organization formed by workers to protect their rights and improve their working conditions. It acts as a collective bargaining unit to negotiate with employers on behalf of employees.
Benefits of joining a Union
- Higher wages
- Better benefits
- Improved working conditions
- Job security
Examples of Unions
Some well-known unions include the United Auto Workers, American Federation of Teachers, and Service Employees International Union.
Case Study
In 2018, teachers in West Virginia went on strike to demand better pay and benefits. Their union negotiated a 5% pay increase for all teachers in the state.
Statistics
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, around 10.5% of wage and salary workers in the US are members of a union.