NEW YORK (AP) — Labor unions in the United States are experiencing a resurgence, with workers across various sectors engaging in strikes and securing significant victories in contract negotiations. However, despite this momentum, labor organizers face numerous challenges, especially those who are part of smaller, less established unions. Union membership rates have been declining for decades due to economic changes, employer opposition, political polarization, and legal obstacles. Despite these hurdles, labor advocates believe that the rising support for unions and the current labor market conditions are driving increased union activity.
The surge in labor activism can be attributed to the rising costs of living, growing income inequality, and the stark pay gap between workers and top executives. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these inequities, as some large corporations reported record profits while inflation soared. Eunice Han, an assistant professor specializing in labor economics, describes the current climate as a “perfect storm” that has fueled union movement.
The tight labor market, characterized by historically low unemployment rates and a high number of job openings, provides workers with leverage to challenge their employers. With approximately 1.5 open jobs for every unemployed person, American workers are increasingly confident in their ability to secure better-paying jobs, leading to higher rates of quitting. This favorable environment for workers has also inspired organizing efforts across different industries and worker categories.
The recent victories in high-profile union battles, such as the actors and writers strikes in Hollywood, have demonstrated the power of solidarity and served as inspiration for workers in other sectors. The simultaneous strikes by the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists and the Writers Guild of America strengthened both unions and showcased the benefits of unionization for workers.
Despite recent successes, overall union membership rates have been on the decline for decades. Factors contributing to this decline include the post-World War II Taft-Hartley Act, which limited the power of labor unions, the offshoring of manufacturing jobs, anti-union sentiment from employers and lawmakers, and the reclassification of employees as contractors in the gig economy. Additionally, the growth of industries with historically low unionization rates, such as the technology sector, has further contributed to the decline.
While the number of unionized workers grew last year, the percentage of union membership in the overall workforce slightly decreased due to the faster growth rate of the U.S. workforce. The decline in unionization can also be attributed to labor laws that impact unions today. The National Labor Relations Act of 1935 granted private-sector employees the right to unionize, while a 1961 executive order from President John F. Kennedy allowed federal employees to organize. However, there are variations in labor laws across states, with some limiting the collective bargaining power of certain worker categories.
Challenges in organizing today include the lack of a strong labor history in certain industries and regions, as well as limitations imposed by current labor laws. For example, larger, more established unions have more bargaining power, while smaller unions face difficulties in exerting influence. Service jobs and industries with part-time work and high turnover rates, such as Starbucks and Amazon warehouses, present unique challenges for organizing efforts.
Despite these challenges, public support for unions remains strong, with a Gallup poll indicating a 67% approval rating for stronger unions. Young people, in particular, are leading the charge for unionization. However, experts emphasize the importance of policy changes to support the growth of unions and translate worker consciousness into meaningful political action.
In conclusion, labor unions in the United States are experiencing a resurgence, driven by rising costs of living, income inequality, and favorable labor market conditions. While obstacles such as declining union membership rates and challenges posed by current labor laws persist, the growing support for unions and increased worker activism provide hope for the future of organized labor.
