Give NLRB power it needs

As a printer working for nearly 10 years for a company in Niles, I went to work every day and worked hard. I served as a shop steward to help ensure safe and decent conditions on the job. Then everything changed one day when the company fired me for my union activity.

I was fired despite the fact that what I did as a shop steward has been protected by federal law for almost 80 years. The National Labor Relations Board is supposed to protect workers who are punished by employers for taking part for speaking up about conditions on the job — but justice is already too late in coming.

Politicians in Congress are trying to make it impossible for the board to do their job protecting the rights of employees. Eventually, I hope to get my job back, but my bills couldn’t wait and last November, I lost my home.

After a lifetime of working, I’m starting over from scratch and my American dream has seen many irreparable damages for which I’ll never be compensated. While Congress drags their feet, I’m moving forward but frustrated at the injustice.

I’m working for far lower wages and starting over isn’t easy. Meanwhile Republican leaders in Congress are still trying to grind the NLRB to a halt. That’s why I’m urging Senator Kirk and Senator Durbin to take action.

We need a full, confirmed NLRB now — justice can’t wait.

Marcus Hedger

Lake Villa