There's Something About Mary Johnson

The attached file is the National Labor Relations Board Order to the YWCA to recognize UAW Local 2322 as the exclusive bargininag agent for YWCA employees and to Sign the Contract that had been ratified by members on April 20, 2005

The National Labor Relations Boards has ordered the YWCA to post the attached notice at their work sites as part of their decision on the Unfair Labor Charges filed against them by UAW Local 2322

Editor's note: Joel Weiss is the head of the Pioneer Valley United Way, a major funder of the Springfield YWCA.

Dear Ms. Johnson and Mr. Weiss,

I understand that a lawyer has been hired to fight unionization at the YWCA and that that legal effort is costing upwards of $100,000.

As someone who works at Baystate in Springfield and gives a regular donation to the United Way, I am not satisfied that my donation is being used by the YWCA to fight fulfilling its contract with its workers.

The YWCA plays an important role in our society, struggling for those without voice. It should not violate that principle in its labor practices.

Please, sign and fulfill the contract.

Martha A. Nathan, MD
Brightwood Health Center
380 Plainfield St.
Springfield, MA 01107

Dear Ms. Johnson,

My office has been contacted by several members of the UAW Local 2322 as well as the Pioneer Valley AFL-CIO. Through these communications it has been relayed to me that the YWCA is currently in contentious negotiations with its employees. I am told by UAW Local 2322 members that your administration is fervently trying to dissuade employees from joining the Local 2322 and in fact has refused to recognize a union that has already been established among your workers.

It is my own personal opinion that workers in this Commonwealth, in whatever field or trade, should have the right to organize and collectively bargain for their wages and benefits. Obviously, the effort and initiative for such organization must come from the workers themselves, and if they feel that it is not in their best interest, they can refuse to join a union.

However, it's my hope that your organization has not trampled upon your employee's right to organize through a pattern of stall tactics and legal maneuvering, as this has been the information that has been relayed to me.

I am a tremendous supporter of the YWCA. Last year at budget time, I voted on several items that support your organization and I plan to do the same this year. The YWCA provides a valuable service to the Springfield community. That said, if it is the position of your organization employees should not have the right to organize, if they so choose, I certainly cannot be in agreement with this policy.

If you would like to contact me on this or any other matter of concern, do nof hesitate to give me a call. I can be reached at 746-2728. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Sean Curran