The National Right to Work Foundation has released a notice targeted at workers affiliated with the United Auto Workers union reminding them of their right to work without joining a union.
The United Auto Workers union went on strike against General Motors earlier this week. Nearly 50,000 workers walked out of 31 GM factories and 21 other facilities to demand fair wages, affordable healthcare, job security, and a permanent positions for temporary workers.
The strike has garnered the support of multiple presidential candidates and politicians, including Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
The National Right to Work Foundation said in its release that its is often contacted during a strike by workers concerned about fines or loss of wages.
“This strike raises serious concerns for employees who believe there is much to lose from a union-ordered strike,” the foundation said. “That is why workers confronted with strike demands frequently contact the Foundation to learn how they can avoid fines and other vicious union discipline for continuing to report to work to support themselves and their families.”
The notice, posted on the foundation’s website, reminded union workers that they are not obligated to maintain membership in a union and that they can revoke union dues. It also encouraged employees who are considering returning to work to resign from their union before doing so. It also gave workers resources on how to remove an unaccountable union from a workplace.
The foundation’s release also brought up concerns about recent allegations against UAW officials who have been accused of embezzling funds and continuing to take dues after an employee’s resignation from the union.
“You should learn about your rights from independent sources and should not rely on what self-interested union officials tell you,” the foundation said.
The United Auto Workers union could not be immediately reached for comment.
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Jordyn Pair is a reporter at The Michigan Star.
Photo “UAW Strike” by Scott Dexter. CC BY-SA 2.0.
