[Ruth]

I am so confused. People tell me that all unions do is taking your dues money. If that is not true please give me more information on the role of unions in the workplace.

[Bill Gutschow]

Hi Ruth,
Of course there are union dues, and many members are not as well informed about their unions role. First and foremost, a union gives workers the chance to bargain with the employer on an (almost) even basis. Representation by a professional advocate in matters related to employment is another plus. On an even grander scale is what the union does politically to push issues of importance to working people. There are also many, many, union benefits and discounts that can more than make up for what a member pays in dues. These are too numerous to name individually,(My union actually publishes a book periodically listing them as they are updated.) If you woulkd like to hear even more, I will try to answer as much as I can. Let me know...
Bill