The benefit of Labor Unions: an interview with Mike Whiteside

Maureen Mullins | 9/10/18

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The powerful action of Labor Unions brought forth Labor Day. Mike Whiteside, president at Labor Union Local 242, is proud to be union. Labor Unions work to improve the quality of life for members and all of America.

In Local 242’s Labor Day statement, it says “anti-worker and anti-union” are trying to weaken unions and the voice of working people, how so, and what is the Right-To-Work Policy?

Organizations such as freedom foundations, and politicians introduce laws that can repeal the Davis-Bacon Act, and form laws like the Right-To-Work Policy crippling unions. Which makes them represent people that aren’t in the union. If [workers] don’t have to pay the fees then the unions don't have what they need to represent the people. It kills the solidarity.

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“You only make progress by fighting for progress” a quote by your founder, how do you fight for progress?

The way we fight for progress is we educate our members. Fighting for progress is making sure that our people have a voice and a vote. Educating our people on propaganda; propaganda that is splitting our members and killing the solidarity in the unions and in the minds of the people. Trying to stand together in solidarity even with other unions. That’s what keeps us strong.

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How does being in the labor union affect the laborer, community and country?

Unions by standing together in solidarity help to set the standards for all. Even though there are lots of non-union, and non-bargaining shops it still sets the standards. It sets the standard for prevailing wages across the nation, keeping affordable wages and affordable living for everyone.

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How is the brother/sisterhood strengthened?

The Community Workforce Agreement strengthens ladies of the trade and minority groups. Which helps us come out of the old age to the new times; now “it’s not just men, it’s everyone.” Helping communities to move forward. We’re all joined together.

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What makes the Apprenticeship Program so successful? What ways has it advanced the industry?

They get paid while they learn. It’s a very successful program because [they’re] being trained by people of the trade who are the founders of the trade. It’s fed out of the community... we’re bringing up our community. The skilled ones going out are being replaced by skilled younger ones.

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Anything you would like to add?

Unions are not there to take your money. Unions are there to represent you and give you a career.