How can I support my union?

How can I support my union?

There are a number of things members can do to make the Union even stronger than it is today. Participating in your local union, sticking together, and educating potential members and the public about our unions are simple, everyday ways we can support our unions.

• Attend local union meetings regularly. If you cannot attend meetings, talk to your shop steward or other members about what took place and try to make the next one.
• Stay informed. Keep up with current events and what's happening in your workplace. Keep up with news that affects you and your union.
• Participate in union elections. Whether it's elections for officers, contract votes or local union business, your opinion counts and can make a difference.
• Get to know your steward, he or she is your primary contact with your union and can answer many of your questions or refer you to the appropriate resources.
• Get to know your local officers and trustees. Many local unions provide contact information and bios on their web sites.
• Review your local union bylaws. Each local is autonomous and has its own set of rules and guidelines.
• Attend union rallies and events when you can. You may not be able to make them all, but standing together shows strength in numbers.
• Become an e-activist. Read and participate on blog sites in your community or state, or start your own blog. Join Union sites on MySpace, YouTube, Facebook and other social networking sites. Comment on local newspaper or TV station web sites to provide the Union perspective
• Spread the word. If you hear about an issue that concerns you, tell your friends, relatives and coworkers and show them how to get involved. Educate others. Talk about what being a Union means to you. Tell your friends, relatives and other workers you bump into about benefits of being a Union Member.

Millwright Ron

www.unionmillwright.com