4 credits. Letter grades only.
K. Bronfenbrenner
Examines the theory, practice, and strategy of organizing in a global economy. Addresses current challenges facing unions organizing in both the public and private sector, in certification elections, and card check campaigns. Topics include review of organizing theory, the social and political context of current organizing, the debate on organizing policy and labor law reform, worker attitudes toward organizing, changing employer strategies and tactics, staffing and financing organizing campaigns, strategic targeting, organizing styles and tactics, changing demographics of newly organized workers, organizing outside the labor board process, and the limits and possibilities of organizing on a global scale. The class includes a two day trip to NYC to engage with rank-and-file workers and union and worker center staff during organizing campaign activities.