Talking with your co-workers about organizing? Has a union campaign started? Are you hearing some questions you don’t know how to answer? We’re here to help!

Here are some common anti-union talking points and how to answer them:

😊 Our workplace is great! We already get XYZ benefits! We don’t need a union!

No matter how great your work environment is, bosses always have more power because they control working conditions. An employer can change any benefit or working condition without a union. A union contract is the only way to guarantee those benefits remain.

😰 We’re going to lose our benefits if we unionize.

This is not true! Unionizing means that workers get to negotiate better benefits and working conditions, rather than just accepting what the boss is offering, and if those terms are not met, the workers can take concerted actions such as strike! It’s a powerful way of using collective power to demand what you want. On average in California, unionized workers are paid on average earn an additional $5,800 more per year as a result of union coverage.

Federal Labor Law prohibits an employer from taking away benefits because workers begin unionizing. This is unlawful retaliation and an unfair labor practice.

😱 It’s hard to fire people if there’s a union

This is actually a good thing! The hallmark of a union contract is that an employer must have a just and fair reason, called “a just cause,” before disciplining or firing a worker. Without a union, all workers in almost every state can be fired for almost any reason.

😩 If we unionize, our company will have to lay people off.

It is actually illegal to lay off workers in response to unionizing. Check out what else is illegal here.

😬 If we unionize, we will have to pay union dues.

Yes, you will have to pay union dues but they are a small percentage, typically around 1-2% of your gross annual salary. Union dues are an investment in your future: unionized workers have higher pay, better benefits, working conditions, and job protections. Dues fund union staff like labor representatives, operations like contract negotiations and contract enforcement, legislative advocacy, and legal representation. A union can only function and fight for your rights if they are funded.

Want to learn how to organize your workplace? Contact [email protected]!