It happens every year. Politicians across the country try to take away the hard-earned accomplishments won by unions in the past century.
These days are no different. After nearly four years of the most outspokenly pro-Labor administration in history, the rights of workers are under fresh attack, with anti-union proposals being endorsed by political candidates across the country.
We must not stand idly as the clock is turned back on labor rights. Now, more than ever, union members need to be engaged in the political process.
The easiest way to get involved is by simply voting. Unfortunately, only about half of all Americans register and vote. That means the other half of Americans put the protection of our freedoms in the hands of others.
One reason for this lack of participation is that too many people believe their votes don’t count. Or they say they are too busy to vote. Or they just forgot to register. All of these are poor excuses, but none of them is as sad as “I don’t care.”
We all need to care. Every one of us.
Some of us take our freedoms for granted because we live in a country with more freedoms than others. But that could change quickly, if we allow it.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a Republican, Democrat, Libertarian or whatever –– voting offers the best chance to have your voice heard in our democracy. It is, in fact, the best way to protect democracy itself.
Voting is serious business, so when you make your choices, please be careful about what you might read on social media or hear on political advertisements. Get the facts and don’t let yourself be swayed by social issues that have no effect on your ability to earn a good living. If you need help, contact your union representative.
Please be sure you are registered to vote. And when you do vote, as you will be asked to do in the weeks leading up to Nov. 5, please vote to protect the rights of working people.
