"Fair Share" is not a Cover Charge.  It is restitution to the Union for the audited cost of negotiations.  If you pay a "cover charge" it doesn't cover the price of the pizza and beer...they're billed separately.  Your "fair share" payment covers the cost of a specific "product" you receive....not pizza and beer, but the services of the Union negotiation team which neogtiates the contract which serves you and the other employees covered by the Union contract.  

Not to be too harsh, but you don't have to work a "union" job.  There are thousands available which are "non-Union."  They are overwhelmingly not as good jobs..However, if you find one which is, by all means take it and you won't be subject to the "whims of the union."  Fair warning, however,......without the protection of a Union, you will be subject to the "whims" of your employer.  However, the choice is yours......regards, Gary