Preserve right to join union ... or not
There have been several editorials lately on the topic of unionization of the workforce. I believe these seem to skip a couple of very important points as they try defending polar positions on unionization both public and private.
First, I believe in the right of any group choosing to organize themselves for collective representation in any give situation. This is a fundamental and constitutional right of our American way of life. The key word here is “choosing.”
Second, I believe that competition and the motivation to excel is not only a good thing ... it is a fundamental requirement for sustained progression of a society ... and the check-and-balance in the marketplace. Without competition, human nature kicks in and seeks the lowest level of effort while expecting a high effort reward.
There is nothing generally wrong with unionization of groups of individuals who choose to do so ... as long as a high level of competition, internal and external, also exists.
The rule that seems to have evolved with unionization is one where membership and dues are required, with dues forwarded to the union for its discretionary use. Some is used as leverage to perpetuate the union. There is no individual choice here.
Forcing choice over individual right to choose doesn’t seem to be an American philosophy. I would like to think that if we had to make a choice between forced participation and the right of the individual to choose, we would preserve the right of the individual.
As far as competition goes, the private sector will take care of itself. We have already seen this happen. If we can’t compete with product, price and quality, then private sector opportunities will perish or move to where they are allowed to compete.
How about this: Everyone has the choice of whether to participate in a union or not. If they choose to exclude themselves, they are on their own to market themselves. Employers beware! Lesson No. 1 of management is to realize that your most valuable asset is your employees. Employees beware! If you don’t like your situation, find another.
Unions beware. Act civil and drop the strong-arm bullying tactics.
Rod Sink
Elgin