We don’t really have a union

from Gary Dunham –

An often overlooked frightening provision in the new proposed contract:

”On covered programs for original New Media rates and terms of
employment are freely negotiable, except that union security,
grievance and arbitration and no strike/no lockout provisions will
apply. No mandatory staffing and full interchange of classifications
will also apply.”

In what universe does a union agree to, and recommend ratification of, this language? It is clearly not a union at all. It is a self-serving, cabal of hypocrites interested in only one thing… their bloated salaries. The term “union security” does not mean security for the members; it means security for the organization, the Corporation that is the I.A. whose main “product” is our labor.  This language is an unveiled message to the members; you are officially on your own.

We “the union” accept no responsibility for the terms and conditions that you, the membership must work under.

We “the union” accept no responsibility for ensuring job security.

We “the union” accept no responsibility for enforcing worker rights.

We “the union” accept no responsibility whatsoever for any issue.

What we “the union” are responsible for is collecting your dues (our salaries) and making sure that you cannot strike… Period.

Finally the IA and the 19 (now 15) “Hollywood” locals reveal their true purpose, in writing for all to see. The “sweetheart” union has fulfilled its end of the bargain. The union has delivered an uneducated, disinterested, and thoroughly confused workforce to the producers to be taken full advantage of. With the added bonus to the producers of being shielded from most federal regulations, because the workforce is part of a collective bargaining agreement agreed to BY THE MEMBERS!