Workers generally have the right to unionize. They can cooperate with one another to ensure fair pay and safe working conditions. Unionized employees can hold their employers accountable for violations of employment statutes and safety regulations. They can also negotiate with their employers to secure reasonable wages and benefits.
Although federal laws clearly protect the right to organize, employers sometimes try to sidestep those rules by terminating or otherwise punishing workers who attempt to unionize. Doing so may constitute union busting and could be a violation of the law.
Union busting is more common than people think
Frequently, workers attempting to unionize do so as quietly as possible. That way, they can minimize opportunities for their employers to retaliate against them or undermine the process.
Unfortunately, employers frequently hear about unionization efforts and respond inappropriately. For example, Starbucks has recently been in the news because of widespread strikes and allegations of terminating workers involved in unionization efforts.
Any employer facing unionization efforts might try to punish the workers involved or fire them to set an example for others. They might also hold mandatory meetings warning employees that unionizing could result in the closure of facilities or other forms of retaliation.
In some cases, management may question workers about attempts to organize and initiate questionable disciplinary efforts against any workers who attend union meetings or similar events. Businesses may even lay off entire teams of employees or close specific locations to avoid working with unions.
Workers facing violations of their labor rights may have grounds to take legal action. Consulting with an attorney after a labor law violation can help workers who have been terminated or otherwise penalized for attempts to unionize understand their rights and hold their employers accountable accordingly.