How do I form a union at work?
Your workplace can be organized if a majority of the employees want a union. Typically, workers authorize the union to represent them by signing authorization cards, which allows the union to bargain with the company on the employees’ behalf. Sometimes an employer will officially “recognize” the union when it sees that a clear majority has signed on. If the employer doesn’t recognize the clear majority, a union must petition the federal government’s National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) for an election to determine if a majority of the workers want union representation. The NLRB then conducts an impartial secret ballot election. If the union wins the election, the way is paved for collective bargaining to begin.
Fortunately, we live in a society of laws – and organizing a union, like many other things in life, requires legal expertise. UFCW local 135 organizers are highly trained in the rules and procedures of the National Labor Relations Act, the law that guarantees workers the right to form unions where they work.
Organizing, is not something we advise workers to attempt on their own. Knowledge, experience and organizational strength make the job much easier. UFCW local 135 prides itself as San Diego’s foremost organizing union.
If you would like more information on organizing a union where you work, Contact our Organizing Department.