Why is the Union Election So Important?

If you were at work today, then you might have received a day-glo orange flyer about the union election.  Some of the information there is accurate, true, and even useful.  Some of the information is not.

"If you don't vote, someone else is making an important decision for you."  This is absolutely true!  Everyone should vote!  Whether you want to vote "yes" or vote "no," everyone should vote.  The union is a democratic organization in which we the teachers vote on issues that are important to us.  And the decision of whether or not to have the union is no different.  If all 90 eligible teachers vote, and the majority vote against the union, then so be it.  It's only fair.  All we can hope is that everyone who votes takes the time to listen to both sides before evaluating what the best decision is.

"Only the union would bargain for you."  This quote however, is not so true.  The Newspaper Guild would bargain for us teachers based on what we the teachers ask them to bargain for.  The contract would set minimums for wages, benefits, working conditions, job security, etc.  And yes, even if you aren't in favor of the union, this contract will apply to you.  And once the contract is approved by both sides, you would pay dues.  However, if you want to bargain on your own behalf for additional salary increases or additional benefits you are free to do so.  The contract negotiated by the Guild would only set up minimums.