1/ After weeks of bargaining, we’re proud to say we’ve made progress with management on many key issues. We’re also, frankly, dismayed by how management has responded to one critical request: They’re rejecting our proposal for union security in our contract. THREAD:
2/ In lieu of union security, management is insisting on an open shop, basically writing a right to work clause into our contract. That means that any union member can choose not to pay dues, while still receiving full benefits from the union.
3/ Right to work is a fundamentally anti-union principle. It essentially introduces a tragedy of the commons issue by enabling anyone who so chooses to freeload off the labor and dues of paying union members.
4/ It has the potential to sow discord amongst its members. It is also, at heart, a union-busting measure. It is designed to dilute the power of unions, and this week, it won a huge victory with the Janus ruling.
5/ Our unit is deeply opposed to this measure: 94 percent of the unit has signed a letter to mgmt stating opposition to an open shop. We are disappointed that Slate mgmt would insist on something that degrades the organizing power of workers, particularly in the current moment.
6/ We hope that if Slate won’t listen to its workers, perhaps it will listen to its readers. So today, we’re requesting your support. Please retweet and amplify our message that union security is essential for our contract and important to the rights of workers everywhere.
