When acting as a Steward you step out of your role as an employee and into the role of official representative of UFCW 227.
The National Labor Relations Act provides legal protection for Stewards conducting union business so that you can effectively represent our members.
Equality Rule
When acting as a Steward you are managements equal. This means you have the right to openly disagree, question and argue with a manager. A recent ruling by the NLRB prohibits Stewards from using abusive language or behavior when interacting with management while acting as a Union Steward. This does not take away your right to act as managements equal or question their actions.
No Retaliation or Discrimination
Management cannot discipline or intimidate you because of your union activity. For example, they can’t deny you promotions or assign you extra work in an attempt to discourage you from being a Steward.
Equal Standard Rule
Management cannot hold you to a higher standard than your co-workers or harass you with extra supervision or stricter rules. Stewards should always set the example for our members while at work, but being a Steward does not allow management to expect more from you.