Report: Unionized Latinos fare better in workforce

By Vicki Needham

Hispanic workers in labor unions make more money and have better health and retirement benefits than those who aren’t members, according to a new report.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) report released Monday concludes that organized labor must invest in expanding its outreach to Hispanics to help grow union membership and provide more leverage to strengthen collective bargaining laws.

“Latino and immigrant workers are making significant contributions to our country, but are facing unprecedented challenges at the workplace and in their communities,” said Hector Sanchez, LCLAA’s executive director.

“Over 6.8 million Latino workers are earning poverty level wages and need the economic security the labor movement has ensured for America’s middle class,” he said.

The report said that Latino workers face higher wage thefts and death rates on the job and the lowest pension and health insurance coverage all while earning the lowest wages.

In one of the most striking findings of the report, Latinos who belong to a union earn on average $11,544 more than those not in unions.

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[Source]: The Hill