FIRST AND FOREMOST, WHAT I AM FIXING TO STATE IS ONLY A VIEW OF MYSELF AND NOT THE LEADERSHIP OF THE KENTUCKY LONG RIFLE CHAPTER OR THE NATIONAL OFFICE.
I must leave you all with some frank and honest observations.... I do believe in unionization and the benefits of organized labor. However, it pains me to no end that the vast majority of the workforce, could care less about their workplace rights, benefits bestowed upon them thru unions hard work, or for that matter provide support to their team of Stewards and Officers. The workforce of today is failing in many ways. Union members, in general, do not support their labor organization in ways that let management know that they are PRESENT and accounted for and WILLING AND ABLE to stand toe to toe for their rights in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement, and all rules, laws and regulations. The vast membership today, although not wholely, sign the dotted line and hope that their labor organization will protect their rights and continue to fight for benefits while they (members) remain "hidden in the background". Guess what, it doesn't happen that way. The jobs of your labor officials shouldn't be like the lonely Maytag repairman... They need support from the membership, such as attending the meetings, suggesting changes in policies, partaking in development of the Union Contract... the list goes on and on and on... I think most of you know what I'm talking about (or you should).
Since I'm not a member of the board anymore, I can honestly say that I could care less what our non-union members wanted or needed, because while they enjoyed the extra .7% of union dues not coming out of their pay, the REAL members sacrificed their dues to ensure the legacy of organized labor could live on. For those of you who are members, I want to give a heartfelt THANK YOU for your monetary sacrifice!
But.... as I mentioned earlier, most of you sit idly by hoping for the best. Most of you show no support for your stewards or officers. Most of the time, when required, these fellow brothers and sisters go into managements office, NOT KNOWING if the workforce has their back. That is a uncomfortable feeling. Most of you opt to FOREGO meetings. It is at these meetings that sometimes critical information is put out. Also, it is these meetings that not only old business is discussed, the floor is opened for new business... yet again another missed opportunity to impact some much needed change. When it comes time to conduct elections, only a VERY SMALL amount of the membership actively partake in the election process (generally around 10-15%, which is very poor)
I encourage each and every person who the shoe fits (you know who you are) to step up to the plate, reach down, grab some fortitude and show some support. Because without YOUR labor organization, and TRUST ME on this one, your workplace lives will become miserable at best!