A Message From Secretary-Treasurer Darren O'Neil Darren O'Neil The Employee Free Choice Act is vital legislation to rebuilding the middle class in America. As union members we know the value of strong representation in the workplace. We also remember what it was like to fight for the right to have a voice on the job, a say in how you are treated, hours that you work, wages you receive, and the benefits you receive. But millions of non-union workers across the country don’t have these rights, and it’s time for that to change. With passing of The Employee Free Choice Act we can begin rebuilding the middle class and revitalize our sagging economy. If working families are to survive this key piece of legislation must pass. History has shown that our economy performs its best when the middle class is its strongest. A study by Hart Research Associates found that 60 percent of non-managerial American workers would join a union if they could. So why have we seen union numbers decline over the past years? Since the 1970’s employers have become experts at harassing and intimidating their workers that most workers are scared to mention the word union or even try to join one.   Fraternally, Darren L. O'Neil Secretary-Treasurer For full message see S/T Report

 

 

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Thought for the Month

by

Gary R. Johnston; President

 

 

How many of your co-workers will say:

“Plays nice with others??”

 

As most of us struggle through these difficult and challenging economic times, we must also remember to conduct ourselves in an appropriate manner in the workplace.  Employers are attempting to squeeze more and more productivity from us, and that often leads to increased frustration and higher stress levels on the job - including your interactions amongst co-workers.  Don’t let your emotions overtake your common-sense in the workplace and cause an inappropriate response or action that you’ll later regret.

 

Every member is entitled to a safe and proper work environment, including at least a reasonable amount of dignity and respect from co-workers and management – every member!  That can also mean how others perceive your comments and actions toward them.  Remember, when you became a Teamster member, you pledged to faithfully observe the constitution and laws of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and the by-laws of the Local Union, which include (in part) “...to never knowingly harm a fellow member, ...”.

 

So, if you become overwhelmed with things going on at work or at home (stress, relationships, depression, substance abuse, elder care, financial problems, etc.), or a combination of both, seek help - SOONER than later.  Most Union Employers provide a confidential, free, counseling service through their Employee Assistance Program; many medical plans offer similar confidential mental health counseling services as well.  Other options may include talking with your clergy person or other counseling professional.  But, please, don’t let problems build up until you mistakenly over-react and potentially put your job in jeopardy.

 

Along these same lines, don’t forget that your Union’s strength comes directly from the unity of its members; workers sticking together on issues that affect the workplace including treating each other with dignity and respect.  And that means not only supporting other co-workers within your own bargaining unit, but it also means supporting and upholding the fundamental principles of unionism in general.  Remember ...

 

“WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER!”