Labor unions are an important part of Oregon’s workforce. While it seems that many places have had drops in union members, Oregon remains with having one of the higher union rates. In 2024, 16% of Oregon’s workforce belonged to a union, which is higher than the national average of around 10%.[1] This stat includes teachers, constructions workers, healthcare workers, transportation workers, and more. Unions like the Oregon AFSCME have gained numerous new members within the last decade.[2]
Unions remain strong in Oregon because workers want better pay, benefits and job security. Unions also provide workers with a voice when dealing with unfair treatment. Through collective negotiations unions can argue issues like wages, schedule, and safety rules. All these affect workers’ daily lives.
However, there are some downsides to being in a union. Union members must pay dues which can be very costly. On top of this unions are very political and have all had a long history of corruption. Still, workers feel that the benefits of being a union worker make it worthwhile.
A close relative of mine has been in the local 290 union for over 20 years. He explains that when he first joined it it was because he saw an ad for the apprenticeship program offered. Through his time being in the union he explained that, at least in his union, it is very much worth being a member of. Especially if you can get into the apprenticeship programs that are still available today.
After researching unions in Oregon and speaking with someone who is a union member, I can see why people join. If I ever worked at a job with low pay and unsafe working conditions, I would consider joining my local union. On the other hand, if I was satisfied with my job I wouldn’t see much of a need for union representation. Unions are not perfect, but Oregon’s unions are a good example of how great they can be.
[1] U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Union Members in Oregon — 2024,” BLS Regional News Release, 2024.
[2] Oregon Business, “Oregon Union Membership Has Grown 23% Since 2013,” Oregon Business Magazine, 2024.