This page is maintained by the Rank and File (RAF) Caucus of AWU-CWA Local 9009. Talking to coworkers about the union can feel awkward at first. This page gives you practical tips, conversation frameworks, and help handling common objections.
Natural openers:
Best contexts: lunch, coffee, a walk, after a meeting. Private is better than public for deeper conversations.
Organizing is legally protected activity under the National Labor Relations Act. You have the right to discuss working conditions and union membership with coworkers. See Your Rights.
AWU has won real things through collective action without a contract, like the implementation of Voluntary Exit Packages instead of sudden layoffs. Contracts come from building power, and we're building it now. See Collective Bargaining.
"The more of us who are visible, the safer it is for everyone. Start easy by joining the Rank and File Caucus, which doesn't require membership in AWU."
"That's great! AWU isn't about any one manager — it's about making sure all workers have a voice, and that good treatment doesn't depend on having the right boss."
"Join the Rank and File Caucus. They're working specifically towards preventing corruption within the union by making sure every voice can be heard. Since the union is just getting started, this is the best time to fix the system and make it work for all of us."
"This isn't all about you; if Google unionizes, the entire tech industry will follow suit. Think about your friends and colleagues at Amazon and Meta. By unionizing tech, you're helping them quite a lot."
Most people need multiple conversations before they act. Check in a few days later, share relevant news, invite them to events, update them on union wins. Following up is relationship-building, not pestering. Remember, demonstrating that you're able to listen and understand what they're telling you is critical to building that relationship.
Maintained by the RAF Caucus | Wiki Home | Content reflects RAF Caucus perspective and may not represent official AWU-CWA positions.