One can simply read yesterday’s op-ed by President Clinton’s Secretary of Labor, Robert Reich, to be reminded of how important it is to have a Secretary of Labor who actually understands the need for workers to be able to form or join unions freely and fairly.

“Nowadays, even though polls show most workers would organize a union if they could, the process is so complicated that it’s rare they even get to choose…it’s been difficult for low-wage workers to organize themselves into unions. Employers often fire or intimidate those who take the lead.”

Reich is correct in pointing out the resistance workers across America face every day as they struggle to earn a voice in the workplace that advocates on their behalf. And in examining Elaine’s strong opposition to the Employee Free Choice Act, the comparison of her priorities compared to the notable figures that preceded her is stark.

Frances Perkins, FDR’s Secretary of Labor and the first female ever appointed to a cabinet-level position, championed the New Deal policies that helped pull the country out of the Great Depression. Robert Reich implemented the Family and Medical Leave Act during his tenure leading the Labor Department, a law Elaine is now trying to dismantle.

Both Secretaries of Labor understood the necessity unions play in keeping corporate power in check and fighting for the interests of workers. Wouldn’t it be nice if we could say the same today?

This entry was posted by Jon Steed on Tuesday, March 4th, 2008 at 2:21 pm to Department of Labor, Employee Free Choice Act.
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