Why should I become a member?

In most cases, if you have a union contract, everybody who works for your employer has to join your union. But in some cases, you have a choice. Why should you join the union if you get all the benefits of the contract either way?

First, it’s fair. Everyone benefits from what we’ve negotiated. So everyone should pay their fair share of keeping our union strong. Second, if we all stay united, our union will have the strength to negotiate contracts for good wages, affordable health care, and safe working environments. When we’re all members, our union stays strong and we can meet our employer on equal terms. And finally, it gives you a voice. Signing a membership form gives you the right to vote on our contracts, vote for stewards and bargaining team representatives, and vote for union officers. If you are not a member, others will make these decisions for you.

Employees who are not members of our union are still covered by our union contract. They receive the same raises and benefits as the rest of us, and have the right to union representation in case of unfair discipline or grievances. Because non-members receive representation, they pay a monthly fee which is slightly less than the union dues that members pay.

Monthly union dues for full-time workers who earn between $1333 and $3054.99 per month are $50.14. Non-members pay $45.22. Those who choose not to become members weaken our whole union, and make it harder for us all to negotiate better wages, benefits, and working conditions. Non-members cannot vote on contract proposals or settlements, or in elections for union stewards, bargaining team representatives, or officers.

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