Matthew Fontana Discusses History and Evolution of Labor Unions With SHRM HR Magazine

In “The Evolution of HR and Labor Relations,” the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) HR Magazine turned to labor and employment partner Matthew Fontana for his commentary on the history and evolution of labor unions in the United States.

Fontana explained that globalization weakened U.S. labor unions during the last 20 years due to companies moving operations overseas, which led to a collapse of the heavily unionized steel industry. “Unions had trouble figuring out how to organize the jobs that remained. They’ve figured it out now,” said Fontana, who added, “Public-sector union [membership] has stayed steady.”

Regarding young workers gravitating toward unions, Fontana noted, “That’s something that often surprises employers. Workers believe in what unions stand for. They believe collective bargaining can be part of a social justice framework. You’re seeing a real energy among younger folks.” 

“What you’re seeing now—the changing face of organizing—reflects the changing face of the workforce,” Fontana added.

The full article is available for SHRM members.