Georgia AFL-CIO  The Voice of Georgia's  Working Families

Uniting Georgia Labor for Over 50 Years

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Unions don't organize workers.  Workers organize Unions.

What is a Union? A union is a group of workers that band together to improve working conditions, wages and benefits and to get respect, dignity and a voice on the job.

What are the benefits of unions? The proven benefits of belonging to a union are higher wages, better healthcare and retirement benefits, and respect from your boss and a say in how your job is performed.

Why do I need one? If you are not your own boss sooner or later you will be placed in a situation where having a union contract will benefit you. 

How can I join or form a Union? If you are in a "Right to Work For Less State" and a union already exist in your work place all you need to do is ask to join.  You may have been told you get the same benefits whether you join or not.   Nothing could be further from the truth.  Everyone gets less when some workers attempt to enjoy the benefits without supporting the organization that fights to provide them.   If you are interested in forming a union in your workplace talk to trusted coworkers to try to gauge the level of support. Call the Georgia AFL-CIO @ 404-525-2793 for information about a union that can assist you.  All calls are confidential.

Who will help me? The Georgia AFL-CIO,  the local Labor Council and established unions will all help you form a union in your workplace

What are my rights under Federal Law? You have the right to form or join a union.  You have the right to concerted activity involving two or more workers.  You have the right to solicit your coworkers on behalf of the union in non work areas during non work times. 

What rights do I have as a unorganized worker in Georgia?  Georgia is an "Employment at Will" State/ That means your employer can terminate you for any reason that does not violate existing Federal Law or Public Policy. Your employer can legally fire you because you part your hair wrong or have the "wrong" color of shoes.  Your employer can not legally fire you for trying to form a union, or for your race, creed, color or National origin.   

For more information about unions and how to join or from a union click HERE to visit the AFL-CIO Website