How Can Labor Get Stronger in the Recession?
Jane Slaughter
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August 27, 2009
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Labor Notes' Mark Brenner discusses the state of the labor movement on Pacifica's Behind the News with Doug Henwood.
Comments
Ah the days............
Hey Sis ...it's been a long time since post 92 strike/Troublemakers 1/Working Smart. Your observations could be no more true - however to a degree some anticipatory legislations have been passed in parts of NA as the recession became more apparent, in an effort to prevent the same post depression unity and progress made by the organized on behalf of the unorganized.
This Sunday members of my former ( retired 2007 ) local; will vote on the Canadian GM deal from May 09. There has been much talk and solidarity to reject the concessionary agreement. I am certain, they will prevail in their choice, but be signed off by the National, in the interests of the base pattern and product footprint. This week GM stated they perhaps will source a 2nd plant for CAMI's product - due to demand. Bollocks...as the gloss fades on the new Equinox, any market production will go to the lowest bidder. This exemplifies how much can be lost when a Conservative Canadian government does the bidding for an industry. Their attachment of financial guarantees to reduced collective agreements lowers any bar, removes competitiveness and saves no one...not the worker, the customer, the community.
That's my "off the line" rant, Sister.
Peace
DCBinns
Social Movement Unionism
Nice article Jane, and as you mention, some unions have reached out beyond their own numbers! Just my humble opinion of course, but this is a must and as our communities are reeling from the concussion of the economic breakdown...the timing could not be more opportune!
I know that many of us who have fought for democratic unionism, have also recognized a need for organized labor to shift into a much more social movement or community unionism. Unions have a responsibility to all people within society...not just it's dues paying members. I could rant all day on how business unionism has deteriorated organized labor, but if our unions do not take this opportunity to help strengthen their ties with the local communities and strive for sustainable social models...they have missed what I feel is their last chance!