After Republican Governor, Scott Walker, was able to stand his ground and remain governor of Wisconsin after last week’s recall election, unions across the country had to come to grips with reality. Once a staple of the American workforce and a badge of honor, the conservatives and the Republican party have turned the word “union” into a four letter dirty word.
The USA Today reports that union membership has dropped to only 11.9%, down from nearly 33% in the 1950s and the lowest percent since the 1930s. Whether in the private or public sector, unions represent democracy in the workplace, keeping in check either the company or business that decided to hire them. The question that is often asked is: “why do so many Americans hate unions”. The main source of news for many on the far right is the Fox News Channel and conservative talk show hosts like Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity. During the Wisconsin protests last year, Rush Limbaugh let his opinions be known about unions and in particular, teachers’ unions.
Teacher: I think we’ve lost the sense of democracy. I feel like what people in Egypt are fighting for right now, that’s exactly what I feel like I’m fighting for right now.
Rush Limbaugh: What an absolute idiot. It’s a crying shame that this glittering jewel of colossal ignorance is teaching students. Comparing this to Egypt? ”I feel like that’s exactly what I’m fighting right now.” What was Egypt even about? Do you even know, ma’am? Bottom line, it’s not about what they want. We all “want” things. Very few of us run around demanding that somebody give us everything we want!
Most of us have more class, most of us have more understanding, most of us are more mature than to run around whining (sobbing), “This is what we want! (sobbing) I want my dignity! I want my respect, and I want my benefits (sniffle), I want my health care!” Well, go earn it! It’s not about what you want. In your case, it’s about what can beafforded. They’re trying to make themselves out to be oppressed. You’re not in Egypt. You’re a bunch of people who feel entitled to be freeloaders.
