More working people than ever—some 57 million—say they would join a union if they had a chance, according to a survey from Peter D. Hart Research Associates. But employers routinely harass, intimidate and coerce workers who try to exercise their right to form a union at work.

On April 19, 2005, a bipartisan coalition reintroduced into Congress the historic Employee Free Choice Act (S. 842 and H.R. 1696). The act would strengthen protections for workers’ freedom to choose by requiring employers to recognize a union after a majority of workers sign cards authorizing union representation. It also would provide for mediation and arbitration of first-contract disputes and authorize stronger penalties for violation of the law when workers seek to form a union.

Sample Letter for Campaign

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I have just signed Working America's petition in support of the Employee Free Choice Act. I feel that workers should be able to exercise their right to join a union if they chose without obstructions from their employers.

I urge Congress to support the Employee Free Choice Act (H.R. 1696 and S. 842) now.

Some 57 million workers would join a union if they could. However, as Human Rights Watch has documented, employers routinely harass, coerce, intimidate and stall to block workers' freedom to choose union representation. In fact, every 23 minutes a worker is fired or penalized for supporting a union.

I am urging you to recognize the urgent need to restore workers' freedom to form unions and support the Employee Free Choice Act.

Signed by:

Campaign Launched:
November 16, 2005