Unions help raise everyone's wages

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=658601

Unions help raise everyone's wages
By STEVE PASKE
Posted: Sept. 7, 2007

I'm not too popular at work. Despite my status as a special educator in the Milwaukee Public Schools, I've devoted some columns to questioning the bargaining tactics of my union, the Milwaukee Teachers' Education Association .

I make no apologies for what I have written in the past. My stance that my union lacks creativity and objectivity at the bargaining table still stands. However, that is not my point today.

Today, I come to the defense of my union - all unions really. A recent report from the U.S. Census Bureau cited that 26% of Milwaukee residents live in poverty. And although the median income for families rose, according to the study, the reason for the increase was that people were working more hours.

If you strictly look at economic indicators such as productivity, Gross Domestic Product or unemployment, a case can be made that the economy is rosy. However, if you look at the economic realities for middle- and working-class people, clearly the statistics are not an accurate measure of reality.

Skyrocketing medical costs gauge the average worker's pocketbook in the form of monthly premiums and co-pays. Student loan debt from the ballooning cost of higher education is an ever-growing albatross around young professionals' necks. Property taxes, which are not tied to income, are an ever-increasing burden on young homeowners.

And as this happens, union membership fades. The number of union members in this country is at its lowest point in decades. What is the reason? We as individuals have allowed corporations, right-wing media and private enterprise to divide us through jealousy.

FULL story at link.