By Heather Brown, a National Education Union steward
Workers today are facing numerous issues that reflect the exploitation inherent in the capitalist system. Unreasonably long hours, inadequate pay, and a persistent culture of harassment are just some of the everyday struggles workers face.
The pressure to work overtime or through breaks is constant if people are to be perceived as a ‘good worker’, with the normalisation of the expectation to sacrifice time and energy to meet the company’s demands. Despite these efforts, pay often fails to reflect the hard work and dedication put in, as wages stagnate while the cost of living rises. Those affected often feel isolated or unable to speak out without fear of retaliation. These are not isolated incidents; they are systemic problems.
Marxists understand that the bosses are not our friends. Their goal is not to ensure the wellbeing of employees but to maximise profit. This profit comes from the exploitation of workers, where the value we produce is greater than the wages we receive. The capitalist system relies on this exploitation. To change these conditions, workers must organise collectively.
So as a worker in a non-unionised workplace, where do you start? Joining a union is a good launchpad, but not an end itself. Organising in the workplace starts with communication. It’s crucial to begin talking to your colleagues about the issues you’re facing. Discussing politics – especially class struggle – may seem intimidating at first, but it is essential to help others understand that the problems they face are not personal failures but a result of a system that values profit over people.
It is also useful to gauge the mood of your fellow workers. To be able to play this role, it is necessary to educate yourself about the current political situation, the role of capitalism within that and what an alternative would look like. Material from Socialist Alternative, such our monthly paper, can be an invaluable resource. These resources explain the Marxist perspective on exploitation, offer practical steps to organise, and provide clarity on the role of unions in fighting back.
It’s important to explain to your colleagues that a union isn’t just a group of people – it is a means of building power through solidarity. As you organise in the workplace, try to be a point of reference for your colleagues. Offer support, encourage discussions, and, importantly, have suggestions about how to make improvements in the workplace. By taking these steps, you can help build a strong, united front that will have the power to confront the bosses and begin the process of changing the workplace for the better.
