National Debate: Labor Unions

Labor unions have a long and complex history in the United States, marked by successes in improved safety standards, working conditions and wages, met with government intervention, union corruption and episodes of violent repression from management.

In the 1950’s about a third of American workers were in a union, the bulk of those in the private sector. In 2020, the overall union density was around 10%, while in the private sector it was only around 5%. Recently there has been an upswing in unionization drives, with the Amazon warehouse workers being a prominent example.

Some would say that unions created a robust American middle class; others believe union demands pushed American manufacturing offshore in search of cheaper labor. Did unions give workers a voice, or did they silence the voices of workers who disagreed with the union stance? Do unions reduce economic inequality, or lead to a stagnant work force that ignores merit and performance?

On Thursday June 16 at 8pm ET/5pm PT Braver Angels will host a debate on the topic – “Resolved: Unions do workers more harm than good.”

What do YOU believe? Share your own story and experiences as we try to understand each other’s points of view and seek out what we may have in common. Join us for this free national debate, in which all participants from across the ideological spectrum will have an opportunity to speak and ask their questions.

Register here. After registration, you will be emailed the zoom link to attend the event. Keep an eye out!