Unions, Strikes, and the Fight for Fair Wages

When we talk about union strikes, it is essential to understand that these actions serve a critical purpose in the negotiation process. They are often the last resort in a lengthy series of various measures aimed at securing fair wages and better working conditions for union members. It is a misconception that strikes solely benefit union leaders or drive prices up. Instead, they are about standing up for workers and ensuring that companies are held accountable.

The Basics of Union Strikes

If a company suffers from a union strike, it usually means that management is either inept, willing to violate labor laws, or simply poor at management. Striking is a significant decision where union members collectively agree to withhold their labor. This action is not taken lightly, as it means forgoing months or years of hard-earned income. In fact, strikes occur most often when workers have already had their gains taken away by management, rendering the strike a final act of defiance.

It's important to note that union leaders do not grow richer through strikes; in many cases, they face significant consequences, especially if there are too many strikes. Striking is a costly endeavor for union members, and union leaders must act responsibly to avoid jeopardizing the livelihoods of their members.

The Realities of Strike Costs and Benefits

The idea that strikes only make union leaders richer and raise product prices is incorrect. In reality, strikes are often the result of egregious actions by management, forcing companies to pay the price of their intransigence. When companies experience strikes, they face immense financial pressure. This financial burden often compels management to negotiate, as they realize that without workers, their business cannot function or generate income.

Strikes are a form of war, but one that is fought on a principled basis. Management is forced to confront the reality that they cannot simply replace striking workers or perform their jobs themselves. As a result, they are often forced back to the negotiation table to address the workers' demands.

Union Strikes and Their Impact

Far from being a mere bargaining ploy, strikes are a powerful tool that unions use to ensure fair wages and better working conditions for their members. Union strikes often lead to modest wage increases that are usually slightly above inflation, as agreed upon in collective bargaining agreements. This is not just beneficial for union members, but also for the broader community, as higher wages can stimulate economic growth and consumer spending.

For example, as a member of a union representing engineers at Boeing in the Seattle area, we received additional pay for working overtime—an unusual benefit for exempt employees. Our very first contract included basic improvements like doors on bathroom stalls, a voluntary savings plan, and the retention of the full medical plan. These improvements would not have occurred without the pressure of collective bargaining and potential strikes.

Further, it is worth noting that wages are generally higher in regions where unions are more prevalent, such as the northern states. This trend highlights the importance of unions in securing better wages and benefits for workers.

In conclusion, the notion that strikes benefit only union leaders or drive prices up is a myth. Strikes are a serious negotiation tool that can lead to positive outcomes for both employees and the economy as a whole. When companies face the reality of lost productivity and financial strain, they are often compelled to negotiate fairer terms, thereby achieving the goal of a strike—the advancement of workers' rights and fair wages.