The Union Difference

America's 16.1 million union members represent a cross section of people--women and men of all ages, races and ethnic groups. Union membership is important to all of these people, helping them gain decent wages and working conditions and have a say in their jobs.

This group of fast facts, collected by the AFL-CIO, answers basic questions about unions and shows some of the advantages of union membership.

Unions Raise Wages - Especially for Minorities and Women

Union Workers Have Better Health Care and Pensions

Unions Are Important for Women

Union Workers Have Greater Job Stability

Unions Are Important for Minorities