It Doesn't Cost to Belong to the UAW, It Pays

The paycheck rewards for belonging to a union are well known. Even after dues are deducted, UAW members bring home far more money than most nonunion workers.

Where we have the bargaining strength and the employers have been financially able, we have negotiated some of the best pensions in America and the premier health care plans in the country.

Even with employers who can't afford top-of-the-line benefits, UAW negotiators have won pay and benefits far in excess of what workers would have received without a union.

But belonging to a union brings rewards greater than bigger paychecks and better benefits.

Union members have the dignity of collective bargaining.

In nonunion operations, workers have little voice in determining much of anything affecting their work. Nonunion employers have the right to arbitrarily change or end their health insurance, pension plans or any other benefit without negotiating with their employees. Work rules can be changed at the employer's whim.

Company handbooks are carefully written to give employers nearly complete control.

But with a negotiated, union contract, workers have real input into the terms and conditions of their employment: everything from wages, hours, safety, pensions, job advancement. Actually the process of negotiation can force management to end inconsistencies, develop fair rules that apply to everyone, and structure benefits in the best way possible.

One page in a contract is worth a thousand promises.

When you are part of the UAW, the personnel office must share its power with you.

We UAW members get a great sense of accomplishment from working together, standing up together, and addressing our common problems in the workplace and the community.

All things considered it pays to belong to the UAW.

 

"The union has raised the standard of living for everyone. We're a watchdog for the country on issues like health and safety."
Bernie Rupprecht
UAW Local 1131
Tooling Systems Division of Devlieg-Bullard