Page 8 - UFCW Union Steward Handbook

THE UFCW AND THE ROLE OF THE UNION

Although their efforts to organize were often met with violence and
repression, the labor movement has succeeded in winning many of the
workplace protections we enjoy today.
The Role of the Union
The “Union Triangle”—it takes more than bargaining and
grievances to defend and improve working conditions
Most union members understand that negotiating contracts and filing
grievances are important ways to protect and improve our conditions
at work. However, if 95% of the workplaces in an industry are non-
union, even the best negotiators will lack the power to win significant
improvements.

The three interdependent functions of our union are often called “The
Union Triangle.” If any one of these functions is weak, efforts in other
areas suffer.

REPRESENTATION ORGANIZING
(Bargaining, Grievances) (Internal & External)
THE ROLE
OF THE UNION

POLITICAL &
COMMUNITY ACTION
(State & Federal)

Representation (bargaining and solving worksite problems)
We negotiate as a group with our employers for dignity on the job
and for numerous rights and benefits outlined in a union contract.
Our contract can cover almost any work-related issues or topic, but
common issues we address are:
l Wages, healthcare and retirement plans
l Reasonable work schedules set by seniority

6 UFCW UNION STEWARD HANDBOOK