A letter from a union employee

To My Fellow Union Members

I am proud to say that I have worked at Wyoming Machinery Company for 14 years, and for the last 10 years, I have been a member of the union here at Wyoming Machinery Company. I originally joined the union so that I could make sure my values and opinions were being represented during bargaining and negotiations, I felt that the money I spent in dues would be money well spent to have my opinion and views represented. I and many of my union peers now feel that this has not been accomplished; the union continues to cater to the needs, wants, and fears of the few, and not the many.

The union has exhausted many resources to protect people for inexcusable acts, rather than encourage positive behavior that strengthens our teams; they have fought for benefits that are not necessarily valued by the majority. Some of the "tactics" used, such as filing nonsense grievances that often go against the opinion of the member's wishes, to serve the needs of those negotiating; these tactics are better suited for Detroit Michigan rather than here in Wyoming.

I recently attended a vote held by the union to ratify the contract presented to the union by the company, a contract that we now know was voted down; can anyone tell you why the majority voted against it?  No, probably not.  Very few were asked what they would like to have changed in the contract, and why.

Please ask yourself this question, has Wyoming Machinery Company ever done anything to lead you to believe that they would treat its employees poorly at the first opportunity? My answer is no, to the contrary in fact, I have witnessed time and time again, a company and management that has gone above and beyond their contractual obligations, to take the best care of its employees. We all know someone, or ourselves have received extra attention at a time of need, family problems, or were recognized for some great individual accomplishment.

In today's world, we are protected by thousands of laws that prevent companies from mistreating its employees, from favoring one over another unjustly, preventing discrimination, etc. However, the union would have you believe that they are the only thing standing between you and the 1920s.

I would like to share one final thought, no matter what your stand is on the union issue, or any other political issues, PLEASE don't forget who we are and the standard we are held to, please show your fellow employees the same respect that you would extend to our most important customers, or even the owner of this company.

Thank you