I am writing to urge voters to contact their representatives and senators to vote for the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act — a federal bill that will strengthen worker protections and help level the playing field between workers seeking to gain union representation and their employers. About half of U.S. workers would join unions if they could, but in workplaces where unions are not established, it can be very difficult to exercise that right. Companies use their power in the workplace to intimidate their employees with half-truths, lies and even threats to prevent workers from daring to organize. The PRO Act would establish stronger penalties to prevent this kind of union busting activity.

As a member of three unions throughout my working career, I have seen what a stable work environment, a seat at the table and good wages and benefits can do for working families and their communities. Union members help lower the wealth gap between workers and the ultra-rich, improve workplace safety, strengthen enforcement of environmental rules and raise the bar for all workers — not just the ones who pay union dues.

Large companies are against the PRO Act because when workers get organized it cuts into their absolute power and profits. When bosses have dictatorial power in the workplace it is seldom good for their workers, communities, customers or often even their own operations and profits. Even an emperor needs someone to tell him he has no clothes on.

Many of our social issues can be improved at the local level and an organized workforce empowers working people to help make it happen. Please encourage your representatives and senators in Washington to vote for the PRO Act.

Joel Hooper
Mercer