The importance of nursing unions
I’ve heard it over and over again (and, at one point, I even believed it myself): “What does the union ever do for us?” It’s a statement wrapped in a question, often said with frustration or cynicism. It reflects the belief that union dues are money spent with little return, but it also reveals something deeper: that many of us haven’t taken the time to fully understand what our union does, how collective bargaining works, or how much of our daily work life is shaped by the protections it affords us. The Difference Between Union and Non-Union Work As someone who has worked in both unionized and non-unionized roles, I can say with confidence that I will always remain pro-union. The difference isn’t subtle, it’s night and day. In non-unionized workplaces, I’ve seen how easily decisions about workload, safety, and wages can shift without consultation. I’ve experienced management practices that seemingly change overnight, leaving employees to adapt or move on. There’s no collective protect...