Join Our Movement

Employees covered by the National Labor Relations Act are afforded certain rights to join together to improve their wages and working conditions, with or without a union. Here is some information on your rights, provided by the National Labor Relations Board, which oversees this process for most workers.

Union Activity

Your Right to Organize

You have the right to work toward forming a union in your workplace, even if one doesn't exist there yet.

Here's what that means for you:

  • You can start or help start a union where you work;
  • You can join a union, whether or not your employer recognizes it;
  • You can help a union organize your coworkers;
  • You can choose not to participate in any of these activities; and
  • If you're in a union, you have the right to fair representation.

Not in a Union? You Still Have Rights

Even if your workplace isn't unionized, the NLRA protects you. The National Labor Relations Board recognizes your right to engage in "concerted activity." That's when you and your coworkers take action together to improve your working conditions. And here's something important: even if you're acting alone, you're still protected if you're speaking up on behalf of your coworkers, raising group concerns to management, or working to bring people together.

What does this look like in practice?

  • You and a coworker talk to your employer about getting better pay.
  • You and your colleagues discuss workplace concerns with each other, whether that's about safety, scheduling, or other job related issues.
  • You speak to your supervisor on behalf of your coworkers about making your workplace better.

Does the NLRA Cover You?

Most private sector employees are protected under the NLRA. However, the law doesn't cover everyone. You're not covered if you're:

  • A government employee (federal, state, or local).
  • An agricultural laborer.
  • A domestic worker in someone's home.
  • Employed by your parent or spouse.
  • An independent contractor.
  • A supervisor (though you may be covered if you faced discrimination for refusing to violate the NLRA).
  • Working for a railroad or airline (covered under the Railway Labor Act instead).
  • Working for an organization not defined as an employer under the NLRA.

If you fall into one of these categories, don't lose hope. You may still have the right to organize under different labor laws.

More Information on Your Rights

Check out the NLRB interactive section on the laws that are protected for employee rights.

Contact the NLRB Public Affairs Office at 202-273-1991 or one of the 26 regional offices.

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