This Independence Day, we are reminded about the value of freedom in our daily lives.

As a labor union, one important freedom we hold most dear is the freedom in the workplace to be able to work with rights and protections that keep us safe and secure while on the job.

Unions promote a higher level of economic equality in societies and are a fundamental element of a free and democratic society. The right to form and join unions and pursue a voice on the job and in their communities is the foundation for worker rights.

In 1935, Congress passed the National Labor Relations Act (“NLRA”), making clear that it is the policy of the United States to encourage collective bargaining by protecting workers’ full freedom of association. The NLRA protects workplace democracy by providing employees at private-sector workplaces the fundamental right to seek better working conditions and designation of representation without fear of retaliation.

This Independence Day, let us take the opportunity to celebrate and be thankful for all of the freedoms we are so fortunate to enjoy.

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