The NAACP Virginia State Conference strongly supports the rights of Virginia’s working families to join unions and engage in collective bargaining. This fundamental freedom ensures that workers’ voices are heard.
We advocate for the passage of House Bill 1263 and Senate Bill 378, which would allow public sector workers to collectively bargain. This legislation marks a significant step in dismantling remnants of slavery and Jim Crow laws that have historically marginalized people of color and women in the workplace. It’s time to move beyond outdated restrictions that hinder workers from improving their conditions and livelihoods.
Collective bargaining is essential for public service workers and leads to better outcomes for our communities. When teachers can negotiate for smaller class sizes, emergency responders for updated equipment, and nurses for improved staffing, we all benefit.
“Empowering workers through collective bargaining goes beyond rights,” emphasizes NAACP Virginia State Conference President Rev. Cozy Bailey. “It serves as a route to justice and equality in our workplaces.”
The NAACP Virginia State Conference will continue its policy advocacy to ensure the rights of all workers and union members in the Commonwealth.