As you are probably aware from your co-workers, IATSE Local 205, which represents stage hands in the Austin area, is conducting an organizing drive directed at the Zachary Scott Theatre crew and craft personnel. You may already have been approached by one of your co-workers about signing an authorization card. In order to help you make the decision about whether or not to sign a card in support of unionizing the ZACH Theatre we’re providing the following information. This represents IATSE Local 205’s guarantees to ZACH stage employees.
WHAT IS AN AUTHORIZATION CARD?
An authorization card is used to determine if employees are interested in being represented by a union in order to negotiate a contract covering wages and conditions of employment. If a significant majority of the Zach Scott stage employees sign cards they can be submitted to the National Labor Relations Board with a petition requesting that a secret ballot election be held to determine if a majority of employees want union representation. If a majority vote yes, the employer is required by law to negotiate in good faith with the union.
THE CARDS ARE COMPLETELY CONFIDENTIAL. YOUR EMPLOYER WILL NEVER KNOW WHO HAS SIGNED!
WHAT WILL IT COST ME?
If IATSE wins the election and obtains a contract, the union will waive any initiation fee for all employees wishing to become union members at the time the contract is executed. This applies to everyone. It does not matter whether or not you signed an authorization card or how you voted in the election. Additionally, you do not have to become a member unless you chose to do so.
Quarterly dues for Local 205 members are currently $74.00, part of this is paid to the International Union. The Local’s work assessment fee is 5% of your gross earnings. Union dues and assessments are in most cases tax deductible.
REMEMBER, YOU PAY NOTHING UNLESS WE GET A CONTRACT!
WILL I BE REPLACED ON THE JOB BY OTHER LOCAL 205 MEMBERS?
NO. If Local 205 obtains a contract all current employees will have the right of first refusal for any jobs you currently hold. However, organized employees will have the right to work other Local 205 jobs. In fact, many of you may already be working under Local 205 via other organized employers we have under contract, such as Stage Alliance.
NO ONE WILL BE REPLACED!
WHAT WILL MY MEMBERSHIP STATUS BE?
When a contract is executed all current employees will be offered membership in Local 205 at full journeyman status.
There will be no vote or test for membership or requirement that your serve a term at a lesser status.
WHAT DO I HAVE TO LOSE?
Unless you enjoy working for substandard wages, with no benefits and no job security; unless you like having your rate of pay change without notice or be dependent upon your gender, you have nothing to lose by signing an authorization card and supporting the union. In fact, you have everything to gain!
STAGE EMPLOYEES DESERVE RESPECT AND A DECENT LIVING!
OTHER QUESTIONS?
Please call me today to have your card picked up or if you are interested in having a united voice to management. You can reach me at 512-371-1217 ext. 205. Call me any time. Local 205 Organizer, Sam Chesney.