Unions’ power must not be limitless

I am not anti-union and I believe that unions are needed and useful. We have relatives and friends who are conscientious teachers and do a fine job; they deserve a good life. Few individuals can negotiate salaries or benefits on a level playing field without representation. I argue only against those union officials who are arrogant, greedy and selfish. Common sense has to be included when negotiating a contract.

Teachers at several Chicago schools recently waived union contract provisions and voted for longer work hours for a small raise in pay. The union became enraged that an agreement would be made that was not made by the union. This waiver by teachers in these schools was not just about a small pay raise. No matter how furious the union was and no matter what claims are made by them, the majority of teachers in these schools agreed that a longer day in school was needed to improve Chicago’s education system.

If they feel that demands are unreasonable they should have the right to express their feelings. The leadership says that all negotiations must be made through the union. One recent poll showed that over 50 percent of teachers feel the unions are too demanding, and 20 percent would do without the union entirely.

Local teachers aware of a local problem should be able to discuss and share decisions with their school district. Such interaction by those who are close to the problems would lead to better understanding and be more likely to be solved. They should not be forced to go through middlemen (unions and attorneys) if a simple problem can be easily corrected. Unions have a valid point here and negotiations are in order, but they cannot be allowed to wield unlimited power over their members and the public.

William McNutt

Des Plaines