When we make purchases, most of us consider the usual factors: price, quality, and availability. But have you ever thought about what goes into the products you buy? More specifically, have you ever considered the workers who produce those goods? By choosing union made products, you can support ethical working conditions and promote fair wages.
So what exactly are union made products? Simply put, these are products made by workers who belong to a labor union. A labor union is a group of workers who come together to collectively bargain for better wages, benefits, and working conditions. When a product is labeled as “union made, ” it means that the workers who made it were part of a union and had the benefits and protections that come with it.
Buying union made products is important for several reasons. First and foremost, it supports workers’ rights. By buying products made by union workers, you can feel good about supporting a system that advocates for fair wages and safe working conditions. It’s also good for the economy, as workers with better pay and benefits have more money to spend in their communities.
In addition, many union made products are high quality and durable. When workers are compensated fairly and have good working conditions, they are more likely to take pride in their work and create products of a higher standard. By choosing union made products, you can rest assured that you’re getting a quality product that was made with care.
So, where can you find union made products? One option is to look for union labels on the products themselves. These labels typically say “Union Made” or “Made in the USA by Union Workers.” You can also look for products made by companies with a history of supporting labor unions. Checking union websites for approved brands and products is another useful resource.
Some common union made products include clothing, such as shirts and pants, as well as household items like furniture and appliances. You can also find union made food and drink items, such as beer and coffee. Whether you’re in the market for an everyday item or a special treat, there are plenty of union made options available.
Of course, buying union made products isn’t always possible or practical. Sometimes, the items we need simply aren’t offered by union companies. Other times, the cost of union made products may be higher than their non-union counterparts.
In these cases, there are still ways to support workers’ rights. One option is to support legislation that protects workers and promotes unions. You can also donate to organizations that support labor unions and workers’ rights.
At the end of the day, it’s up to each of us to decide what’s most important when we make purchases. But by considering the impact our choices have on workers and communities, we can make more informed decisions and create a better world for everyone. Choosing union made products is just one small way to make a big difference.
