The next president of the United Union membership increased in 2007 by 311,000. The Bureau of Labor Statistics, an agency within the Department of Labor, computed the figures.

This annual increase is the biggest one since the DOL began collecting data in 1981.

This is a remarkable fi nding. We have lived through - just about anyway - one of the most virulently anti-union administrations in American history. We have seen manufacturing jobs dispatched to Mexico, China and other low-wage nations.

And despite this, the Labor Movement increased its numbers. There must be something to the polls that show more than 50 million desirous of union membership. If only they could realize their rights minus intimidation and deliberate delays.

The reasons that people want to join a union are the same as ever before: dignity in the workplace, better wages and benefi ts and a voice in dealing with workplace issues.

On the subject of earnings, the Bureau of Labor Statistics found that in 2007, union members enjoyed median weekly earnings of $863 versus $663 weekly for unrepresented workers. The value of a collective bargaining agreement is clear. The appeal of an extra $200 weekly is strong.

The BLS determined that 15.7 million Americans belong to unions. The fi gure could be much higher if joining a union were not diffi cult. A measure to open the way to union membership more easily is under consideration: the Employee Free Choice Act.

The Employee Free Choice Act would enable workers to gain union status through card check certifi cation. Naturally, the Bush administration and backward employers oppose the legislation. We must work hard to see a new worker-friendly, union-friendly administration take offi ce in 2009.

Senator John Edwards applauded the news from the BLS. Edwards said, “I salute the courage, the tenacity and success of the men and women who have joined the Labor Movement in historic numbers over the past year, and in doing so, have helped strengthen the middle class in America.” He went on to note the substantial benefi ts of union membership.

All this having been duly noted, we as GMP members at every level have an obligation to help our fellow working people achieve a better life. The International Union recognizes and meets its responsibility through the activities of our Organizing Department.

The GMP Local Unions should actively seek to organize workers in their communities or their plants if they are right-to-work-for-less states. Stronger unions make stronger communities. We all have a role in bringing this about.

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