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NC Voices for Choice: Miriam Thompson
14 May 2009 by Tessie in Federal Issues, Home Page, Issues / No Comments
“EFCA is about Social Justice”
Miriam Thompson, an outspoken, retired UAW member, is also a member of the Alliance of Retired Americans and the labor chair of the local NAACP chapter in Chapel Hill. Miriam is a vocal advocate for the Employee Free Choice Act, a bill that she believes will restore democracy in the American workplace.
“The Employee Free Choice Act shows respect for workers,” says Miriam. “It shows respect for their choice to form a collective body through secret ballot or majority sign-up.”
In her interview, Miriam addressed the issue of North Carolina’s low union density. Many critics of EFCA argue that higher rates of unionization would be detrimental to the state’s economy.
“Unions bring an expertise and stability into the workplace that will help advance North Carolina’s economy,” explains Miriam. “They allow a climate in which employees and management can work together. I see a more stable and reliable workforce as a tool to attract potential employers to North Carolina.”
As a retired UAW member, Miriam also addressed the problems in the auto industry. “In one plant the management tried to get rid of the union and hire unskilled workers. Afterwards, they had higher accident and injury rates, not to mention the atmosphere of intimidation. I don’t think that makes for healthy business practice.”
Miriam expressed her support for the president’s plan for workers. “We have a president who has come on strong to protect workers and to show workers that they are appreciated and respected, because their labor makes the economy and the country move forward.”
Though mainstream America seems to have forgotten it, the labor movement is responsible for many of the benefits we enjoy today. “The Employee Free Choice Act is a continuation of the labor movement’s history of fighting for social justice,” says Miriam.
She adds that people can get involved with this issue by contacting unions in their area or the local NAACP, and also to call their member of Congress to make sure they support this bill.
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