Support Your Union Steward

The vanishing role of the Union Steward is no mystery. The emotional strain on the person taking the role of jobsite advocate is unrewarding, unsatisfying and, to the unions' detriment, unneeded because it is more often than not their own members that cause the misery. Many times the middle manager that is often portrayed as Big Bad Boss is no more than a stressed out, squeezed and overworked drone. It would be in his or her interest to foster the worker that undermines the stewards efforts of improving the jobsite by hanging the carrot of promotion or special favors to that souless, broken and disspirited wage slave. The union steward cannot fight a two front war, it would demoralize anyone no matter how righteous.

There are many examples of the union rep or BA coming out of the Hall and undercutting the steward right on the jobsite, ruling on the employers behalf. If I was steward I wouldn't go one inch forward and resign right there. At that point there is not a union presence on the job and there is no reason to live in delusion of such a situation most wanted. Pack your tools and wait for the layoff.

The type of person that takes on the role of steward usually has a high level of self respect and sense of right and wrong. These fine qualities will be tested everyday finding out that some coworkers and fellow union members do not have a low bar in these qualities. They are frightened, browbeaten, supplicant, and trained by popular culture not to think for themselves or defend themselves. Taught to 'not rock the boat' at a very young age. Those that speak up are considered "weird" and are open for derisive comments. It takes and incredible amount of internal control to work on someone's behalf who doesn't deserve the benefits of the struggle. Of course, it goes without saying who will be first in line and claiming credit for those benefits, or now considered, "entitlements". There will be no acknowledgment for the person that is the lightning rod and taking the mental and spiritual beating from management and workers. It has been decided oddballs don't get respect.

Anytime a worker brings up a safety issue - back 'em up. So many times I've heard flapping gums with a Big Fat Opinion why this demand is unnecessary. It may have something to do with the Tough Guy Syndrome, or it is just plain ignorance. If nothing else, don't say a thing whether you understand it or not. You are not gaining points from the Boss, you are acting like an ass in front of the people that may have to save your life. Don't put doubt in their minds.

Actively working against the steward is treason in the continuing class war. This person deserves respect and admiration. Disagreements of points or tactics should be discussed quietly and privately out or the earshot of company snitches and confused wage slaves. Tell your steward, "Thanks" at any time throughout the work day. Support Your Union Steward. Let's rebuild the labor movement on the jobsite level.