Since Pope Leo XIII, the Catholic Church has supported the right of workers “to unite in associations for the promotion of their interests.” In Matthew’s Gospel, our Lord told us that “the laborer deserves his keep” (Mt. 10:10). Pope St. John Paul II wrote in “Centesimus Annus” that “society and the State must ensure wage levels adequate for the maintenance of the worker and his family.” This right stems from the dignity of each human person and the need to support family life. Realizing this right has come about in the formation and support of unions. In fact, it was not uncommon in the past to find a priest or religious standing in solidarity with union members on strike for a living wage and fair treatment.
Unions are not meant to work only for themselves and their own members. Instead, “workers must use their collective power to contribute to the well-being of the whole community” (cf. “USCCB, “Economic... Justice for All,” 1986). In recent decades, rather than fulfilling their specific role, some unions have become inefficient and corrupt. Last week, the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) went on strike, closing seaports. The union demanded higher wages ($69 an hour) and no automation in ports.
Currently, the members already make $39 an hour, as their contracts already guarantee them income regardless of the work performed. Additionally, discriminatory practices by the union prohibit many from becoming members. U.S. ports are also among the most inefficient in the world. Meanwhile, union boss Harold Daggett earned over $900,000 last year (according to the New York Times).
Unions which unfairly advantage their workers and harm society, do not deserve our support.
