Union efforts benefit all workers

The Sept. 2 Mark Mix OpEd column “On Labor Day, consider the injustice of forced union dues” was a slap in the face of the families of every union household in the Coachella Valley and country (like the home I grew up in).

The author is an unabashed proponent of so-called “right to work” laws. The column was filled to the rim with anti-union tropes, two-faced euphemisms, and purposeful misdirection.

Union-won benefits go to all workers on the job covered by the negotiated contract due to Federal law. Many get benefits they never worked for. Some say they don’t want to pay for the leaders who negotiate on their behalf, too.

If the benefits only went to the union members, different songs would be sung. The columnist wants to "eat his cake and have it too."

State right-to-work laws simply grant bosses the right to fire willy-nilly. Your readers need the rest of the story. Please get it from a good dues-paying union member.

The Rev. Kevin A. Johnson, Palm Springs

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