If only an "ACLU for labor rights" existed. The ACLU works through the courts, while unions cut deals behind closed doors.
The unions did a good job getting the laws passed, but they need to step aside and let the lawyers take over. Filing a lawsuit is faster than unionizing, for essentially the same result. Collective bargaining is out and class actions are in. Not everyone can afford a great attorney like those EA guys, but the DOL does a pretty good job when anyone bothers to fill out their paperwork.
While I agree that the labor movement in the past has contributed to a higher standard of living, most of the benefits you listed have been passed into law in the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938. You don't need to be in a union to have rights anymore, and the Department of Labor doesn't charge dues.
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If only an "ACLU for labor rights" existed. The ACLU works through the courts, while unions cut deals behind closed doors. The unions did a good job getting the laws passed, but they need to step aside and let the lawyers take over. Filing a lawsuit is faster than unionizing, for essentially the same result. Collective bargaining is out and class actions are in. Not everyone can afford a great attorney like those EA guys, but the DOL does a pretty good job when anyone bothers to fill out their paperwork.
While I agree that the labor movement in the past has contributed to a higher standard of living, most of the benefits you listed have been passed into law in the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938. You don't need to be in a union to have rights anymore, and the Department of Labor doesn't charge dues.