The benefits of unionization are frequent subjects for many Democratic, progressive and other reform-oriented Internet writers. Unfortunately, many of these writers are unaware that an excellent union is available for freelance writers like them to join. This union is the National Writers Union ( http://www.nwu.org ) which is Local 1981 of the United Auto Workers ( http://www.uaw.org ).
The National Writers Union (NWU) represents freelance writers of many types. They represent freelance journalists, book authors, and technical writers among others.
The benefits of joining this enlightened union are numerous. The NWU operates a jobs hotline. It can help with contract negotiation and copyright issues of all kinds. The National Writers Union is a strong defender of free expression.
Membership education is an important benefit. Members are able to increase their skill level thanks to workshops and other programs of the National Writers Union. The professional networking aspect of NWU membership is very important. The union has local chapters in many parts of the nation along with at-large memberships.
Under the leadership of NWU President Gerard Colby, the union is actively reaching out to new members and expanding both member benefits and advocacy for independent writers. This writer highly recommends visiting the National Writers Union website to learn more about the union and/or to join.
I have been a member of the National Writers Union for a couple of years. It has been a very positive experience. I personally recommend the union based on my personal experience. Every blogger should seriously consider membership if they take their writing seriously. Anyone even considering writing a book should start with joining the NWU. Personally, I believe in this organization.
Union membership in general is a very positive and rewarding experience. My father has been a United Auto Workers, Local 1183 member for almost 50 years. I was briefly a member of that UAW local in my youth.
I tried to help the IAM (Machinists http://www.goiam.org ) unionize a General Electric appliance warehouse in Perryville, Maryland. Because the current unionization election process is grossly unfair, the effort was not successful. I remain a huge fan of the Fighting Machinists and recommend them highly. Anyone interested in the “grossly unfair” nature of the unionization election process should read my Employee Free Choice Act and Republican Disinformation column http://www.democratictalkradio.com/wordpress/?p=285 .
I am a new member of the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU http://www.opeiu.org ) with my job at American Income Life Insurance. The company is both an all union operation and an amazing place to work.
Recently, I was able to become an associate member of the United Steelworkers (USW http://www.uswa.org/uswa/program/content/1264.php ) at a very reasonable rate. This makes my third current union membership.
My only regret is that I cannot be a member of even more labor unions. I hope readers like you will join my other brothers and sisters in the organized labor movement, today!
Written by Stephen Crockett (co-host of Democratic Talk Radio http://www.DemocraticTalkRadio.com .) Mail: P.O. Box 283, Earleville, Maryland 21919. Phone: 443-907-2367. Email: midsouthcm@aol.com . Feel free to publish at no cost without prior approval.
