Political Education

Labor rights are deeply connected to political power. As a steward, understanding the political landscape helps you protect members' rights.

Why Politics Matters for Workers:

• Labor laws are written by politicians

• Right-to-work laws, minimum wage, OSHA protections — all are political decisions

• Who sits on the NLRB determines how labor law is enforced

• Local government decisions affect public sector unions directly

Key Laws Every Steward Should Know:

• National Labor Relations Act (NLRA): Protects the right to organize

• Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): Minimum wage, overtime

• OSHA: Workplace safety standards

• Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): Job-protected leave

• Title VII: Anti-discrimination protections

Political Action:

• Register to vote and encourage members to vote

• Understand your union's political endorsements

• Attend city council and school board meetings

• Support pro-labor candidates

• Know the difference between partisan politics and worker advocacy