Rights Review

When it comes to standing up for yourself at work, knowing your rights isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. That’s why we’re breaking down Article 17, Sections 2 and 3 of the Master Agreement. These two sections spell out your rights to be involved with the Union and to have representation when you need it most.

Section 2: You Have the Right to Be Union Strong

Let’s get one thing straight: every employee in the bargaining unit has the legal right to be part of the Union. Whether you’re a nurse, a clerk, an engineer, or a technician, your title, pay, grade, or job duties do not limit your right to participate in Union activities.

Here’s what that means for you:

• You can join the Union

• You can run for Union office (like steward or president)

Have you called out due to a personal circumstance and later have found that you have been charged AWOL for that day. Perhaps some may have been warned in advanced that everyone that "calls off" on a certain day will be charged with AWOL. We may see this happen more often than not, specially when your absence is related to a weather condition, so let's explore a little more about what AWOL, what to do if you receive AWOL and what not to do if you have been threatened with AWOL.

What is AWOL?

AWOL means "Absence Without Leave". Although AWOL is not considered a dicsiplinary action, it may be used for disciplinary reasons if an employee receives too many. Although supervisors will argue that AWOL itself is not a disciplinary acition, it is a tool for superisors to set a path forth for discipline in the future. AWOL is…