Union Membership in the US Hits Record Low for Second Consecutive Year Despite High Approval Ratings
Despite unions achieving significant victories and receiving the highest approval rating in decades, the percentage of US workers holding labor union memberships has hit a record low for the second consecutive year in 2023. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a slight decline in union membership, ticking down to 10% from 10.1% in 2022.
While the overall number of wage and salary workers belonging to a union increased to 14.4 million in 2023, up from 14.3 million the previous year, it was not enough to keep up with the rise in non-union workers entering the workforce. This disparity has led to a decrease in the union membership rate for the past two years.
Despite a flurry of labor activity, high-profile victories, and unions reaching their highest approval rating from the public in nearly six decades, last year’s drop in the union membership rate is concerning. In 2023, organized Hollywood actors and writers celebrated reaching new contracts after months of striking. The United Auto Workers also achieved record contracts with Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis following strikes against all three companies. Additionally, the Teamsters reached a record-breaking contract with UPS.
A Gallup survey conducted in August revealed that 71% of Americans approve of organized labor, an increase from 68% in 2021 and 64% before the COVID-19 pandemic. This data from Gallup’s annual Work and Education survey represents the highest rating recorded by Gallup since 1965 when César Chávez formed the AFL-CIO United Farm Workers Organizing Committee.
Despite the high approval ratings, union membership has been steadily declining since the 1970s and now stands at less than a third of its peak rate in the 1950s when over 30% of workers were part of a union.
The decline in union membership is a concerning trend that raises questions about the future of organized labor in the US. While unions have achieved significant victories and enjoy widespread public support, they are struggling to attract new members and maintain their influence. The reasons behind this decline are complex and multifaceted, with factors such as changing labor laws, the rise of the gig economy, and shifting attitudes towards unions playing a role.
It is crucial for unions to adapt to the changing landscape and find innovative ways to engage with workers and address their concerns. As the workforce evolves, unions must demonstrate their relevance and effectiveness in advocating for workers’ rights and improving working conditions. Only by doing so can they reverse the decline in membership and ensure a strong future for organized labor in the US.
In conclusion, despite high approval ratings and notable victories, union membership in the US has reached a record low for the second consecutive year. This decline highlights the challenges faced by organized labor in attracting new members and maintaining their influence. However, with adaptability and a focus on addressing workers’ concerns, unions can work towards reversing this trend and securing a stronger future for themselves and the workers they represent.
