Be Thankful for Your Union Job

In response to A.R. Fullerton’s question (“Not Much Workers Can Do to Circumvent Union Rules,” Shop Talk, June 9) answered by James McDonald, a more balanced reply would be as follows:

Congratulations on your well-paying union job with good benefits and job security. Your wages and benefits would be a lot less if you lived in a so-called right-to-work state, where you wouldn’t have to join a union.

I think you should continue your high level of performance, which contributes to your employer’s financial success. Perhaps you can be a model for your peers, who apparently have become unmotivated. Speak to management about labor-management-sponsored motivation seminars and your own promotion opportunities. Promotions are often decided upon merit, qualification and seniority.

Remember, your union contract requires that all employees be treated fairly, and you have a grievance procedure designed to facilitate that.

Review your union-negotiated work rules with management and ascertain which classification of work you may perform outside your own to enhance your work experience and income.

MICHAEL A. STRAETER

President, United Food &

Commercial Workers International

Local 1442

Santa Monica