More than an election is taking place in Wisconsin today. It's really a survey of what at least part of America thinks about workers and their representation.
I think even the most ardent union supporter would admit that unions have not always been perfect. There HAS been corruption and power HAS gone to the head of some of the leaders. But why should we hold these people to such a high standard - a standard that is probably too high for any human to reach? Are not some corporate leaders corrupt and power hungry? Should we do away with corporations because of that? Should we eliminate the presidency because of Watergate? Or the Catholic church because of the priest scandals? In what other organization do we let the errors of some of the members lead to the end of the organization completely (oh yeah, ACORN, but that is another story).
For all their faults, unions are the ONLY voice the workers have that can even come close to the volume of the owners voices. THERE IS NOTHING ELSE!
Just like in any other case, we need to correct the flaws and preserve the institution. The future of working people - and America - depends on it.
We may lose in Wisconsin, but we can't lose hope.
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