On today’s episode I discuss organized labor movements in America and why it is so important for UBC carpenters to develop and appreciate the storied history of our organization.

Without knowing how we got to where we are, many may find it easy to undervalue the vast amount of blood, sweat and tears that were spilled in achieving the benefits we all enjoy as union members today.

Countless hours devoted to organizing and negotiating campaigns often go unseen and unappreciated by the vary members whose lives they mean to better.

Worse yet, many union members see it as someone else’s responsibility to do the heavy lifting necessary to protect our organization from the endless onslaught of attacks from big monied interest determined to destroy our way of life.

Sadly, they do not understand the true strength of our organization, is its members.

Our ability to command livable wages, healthcare benefits for ourselves and our families, access to training, safer working conditions, representation and the prospect of retirement with dignity, fall upon our collective shoulders to protect for future generations of carpenters to come.

Today’s guest will share insight on the many hardships and successes, labor unions have endured over the decades, while paving the way towards a strong middle-class America, and how quickly our way of life can be disastrously altered if we don’t keep our eyes on the future.

Mark McDermott is a lifelong supporter of organized labor and public presenter who has given over 450 talks on the history of organized labor movements and the long struggle for economic and social justice in our country.

We’ll start our conversation by delving into why, now more than ever, we need strong labor unions.

Next, we’ll look into what attacks are being made on unions and who is responsible for these attacks.

Mark will later explain the importance of member involvement in politics and how vital it is in maintaining the balance of wealth in America.

And we will end our conversation by giving you the information needed to join the fight in protecting your future as a professional craftsperson.

Show Notes

Mark McDermott
http://www.markmmcdermott.com/