(This article was first reported in the February 2018, Local Newsletter)
Written by: Tony Rodriguez Editor of APWU, SJAL #0526
Solidarity – whole sum, of community of interests, objectives, or standards in a group (Webster’s Seventh New Collegiate Dictionary_1963); when several persons bind themselves towards another for the same sum, at the same time, and in the same contract. (Black’s Law Dictionary, 5th Edition_1979)
Unity (as of a group or class) that produces or is based on community of interests, objectives, and standards. Union or fellowship arising from common responsibilities and interests, as between members of a group or between classes, peoples, etc. One cannot stand in solidarity by simply standing by and see changes happening before them. Have questions (in their head) about what’s going on. Listening to rumor and conjecture. This is not standing in solidarity; it is a divide.
Ladies and gentlemen, when you are in question about the changes in your workplace, you have the right to request to see a shop steward. If you are not checking out the National website or our Local website, then requesting a shop steward will answer all of your questions.
Don’t be scared that management may retaliate or deny you. Let them!!! Your steward has an answer for that. “If an employee requests a steward, such requests shall not be unreasonably denied. Reasonable time cannot be measured by a predetermined factor.” (JCIM: Article 17.3, pg. 152) “…when an employee asks to see a steward, a union steward/employee will be released within two (2) hours of his/her request. Normally the steward/employee will be released before the end of the tour. However, if the steward/employee is not released within that time frame, the steward/employee must be released immediately upon the beginning of his/her next tour of duty. In the event a steward or employee is delayed until their next tour, the steward/employee should notify the supervisor of the prior request.” (JCAM: Q&A – Question 7, pgs. 157-158)
So, don’t let management divide you through rumor, conjecture and retaliation. Request your steward and get your answers TODAY!