Union membership has been a popular tool for labor rights since the industrial revolution. 2022 has seen an uptick in union efforts across a variety of industries including retail, airlines, and tech. So why are workers unionizing now?
This trend is a result of the current political and economic status of the country. Workers are asking for more benefits, pay, and safety measures from their employers in response to the pandemic. Why was the pandemic the breaking point?
The pandemic raised new safety concerns like vaccinations, mask requirements and social distancing. Employees across companies organized for greater COVID protections. Inspired by Amazon worker, Christian Smalls, other Black workers are organizing in other companies.
So what are the benefits of unions for Black people?
Black union members earn on average 17% more than non-union peers. In fact, Black workers are more likely to be in unions!
By ourselves, the power balance in the workplace may be small, but as a group, Black workers have power over working conditions and how we are treated.
2022 will continue to see unions rise across America’s popular industries. Unionizing can benefit Black workers the most by giving us power and a voice in how we are paid and how we work. Workers are demanding more, and 2022 is just the beginning!