The Union Advantage

Asking someone to join the union seems like a difficult task, but when you know what to say, the “ask” isn’t difficult at all. Research shows people WILL join, if they’re asked. Below are some easy answers to the common questions potential members ask. MEA encourages you to use this as a guide in your membership recruitment process.

THE UNION ADVANTAGE-HOW TO TALK TO PEOPLE ABOUT MEMBERSHIP AND JOINING

Who is MEA? What does MEA do for me? What are MEA’s recent successes? What are the dues?

Maine Education Association (MEA) is our state’s union for all public school educators. We are part of the largest labor union in the country, with nearly three million members who work together to ensure all educators have a stronger voice. Together, we are a union.

What does being a union mean?

As a union: • We have the legally protected right to negotiate for higher salaries and improved working conditions for educators. • We meet with lawmakers from both political parties to improve our daily lives as educators. • We work hand in hand with school administrators and school boards to make sure our voices are heard and respected. • We make sure that educators have the resources you need to give students your best. MEA gives educators a voice in their work. The Union listens to members to ensure their needs are met, and advocates at the local, state and national level to create real change. Recently, MEA changed state law to increase the minimum teacher salary and is working to increase the minimum wage as well. Pay increases are also negotiated by the union at the local level.

MEA advocated to create a law that gave educators COVID sick time, and laws to protect educators against dangerous behavior while on the job. Pension improvements can also be credited to MEA work at the statehouse.

MEA is always on the side of our members and working to improve pay, benefits, working conditions and student learning conditions. To help members understand these successes, share this magazine with them, particularly page 25 which highlights some of this work. Dues vary based on the district/ employer, position and work status (full-time, part-time or quarter-time). On average it costs about $25 a pay period for a full-time, professional member and half that for full-time ESP members.

Looking for more resources?

Ask your UniServ Director for more support or for help to run a membership campaign. MEA has everything you need to kick start membership in your local association!

SCAN HERE TO CONTACT YOUR UNISERV DIRECTOR

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