What has happened to union membership in the U.S.?

Critical Analysis

Find answers to the following questions using the visual above, any links below, your big brain, and your knowledge of American government and politics:

1. According to the data from the visual above, what percent of American workers were union members in 1980?

2. According to the data from the visual above, what percent of American workers were union members as of 2021?

3. Describe one trend in union membership in the United States over the past 40 years?

4. Unions advocate for workers' rights and interests, negotiating for better wages, benefits, and working conditions. They act as a collective bargaining agent, representing employees in negotiations with employers. Unions also work to improve workplace safety, fight against discrimination, and promote overall worker well-being. What do you think is one consequence of falling union membership?

5. As union membership has fallen, union popularity has increased (see below*). Why do you think that is?

6. According to Gallup, Seventy-one percent of Americans now approve of labor unions (see visual below*) - the highest Gallup has recorded on this measure since 1965. The latest approval figure comes amid a burst of 2022 union victories across the country, with high-profile successes at major American corporations such as Amazon and Starbucks. The National Labor Relations Board reported a 57% increase in union election petitions filed during the first six months of fiscal year 2021. Why do you think union approval is increasing?

7. The U.S. has one of the lowest rates of unionized labor in the developed world. (see below*) How does that impact the American economy and politics?

8. Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers and is traditionally observed on the first Monday in September. It was created by the labor movement in the late 19th century and became a federal holiday in 1894. With so few people in unions, should we still celebrate Labor Day?

9. The most common occupation in the United States is Home Health with over 3,600,000 workers. The median wage of a home health aide is $33,585 a year and $645 a week. Is that enough to live on?

10. I have worked a number of the jobs listed in the visual above: retail salesperson, a cashier, fast food, and stocker/order filler. I’ve also been a teacher for over 25 years. These are all honorable jobs. How will automated checkouts, AI, and robots impact work?

Write and Discuss

Take ten minutes to write about the question at the top of the page and then discuss with your classmates.

Act on your Learning

It’s Labor Day today, yet you are in class. Ask your teacher or admin why your school doesn’t celebrate Labor Day.

Get Creative

We celebrate many holidays with family, food, and fun. Celebrate Labor Day in a new, unique, and creative way.

Learning Extension*

Read more about unions in the U.S.