Union density matters, that is. This BeyondChron piece dramatically exhibits the external pressure union activists can put on employers to encourage them to "cooperate" in the process of their employees "selecting" union representation in the major hotels in San Francisco. More after the jump
Street disturbances, lobby confrontations, both tactics are used by UNITE HERE in its efforts to build public support and pressure. Not so nearly as effective as the article implies in areas like New Orleans where external support evaporates due to a lack of substantial union density and for cultural reasons. More after the jump. New Orleans is a very conservative environment, guests would likely exhibit significant anger towards "outside agitators." And like another southern city, Houston, use the police authority to ensure against disturbances of the peace, thereby rendering the protest option far less effective. Also in the past we, in Louisiana, have seen high profile "industry organizing" attempts flop in healthcare, hospitality and the oil patch.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides a yearly statistical summary on union membership. Last week's release of the 2010 report confirmed conventional wisdom by showing union membership declining from 12.3% of the wage and salary workers to 11.9%. Union density also fell in the private sector to 6.9% (as compared to 36.2% in the public sector. The estimated number of workers belonging to unions declined 612,000 to 14.3 million. Union membership rates declined over the year in 33 states and the District of Columbia and rose in 17 states. Union membership declined in Louisiana and Mississippi, but increased in Texas.