Fighting Anti-Union Efforts
Frequently asked questions about the out-of-state, anti-union organization trying to take away your voice at work
In recent weeks, an out-of-state, anti-union organization calling itself the Freedom Foundation (aka Opt Out Today) has been sending out emails and letters targeting workers who are members of our union. Their billionaire-funded campaign aims to take away workers’ rights and weaken our collective voice at work, in our contracts, in our communities, and in state and national political and legislative processes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Anti-Union Organizations
Q: What the heck is Opt Out Today and why are they targeting me?
A: Based in Washington State, the Freedom Foundation (aka Opt Out Today) is an extremist political project of a group of billionaires who see workers’ collective bargaining rights and the political power they create through their union as a threat to their profits and the continued accumulation of their wealth. This anti-worker organization has sent similar emails and tactics to workers just like us in Oregon, Illinois, and other public sector locals across the country.
Q: Why is Opt Out Today targeting us and our union?
A: The billionaire-funded “Freedom” Foundation (aka Opt Out Today) and others are pursuing a plan to privatize our schools and public services, cut our pensions and drive down wages for us all. They are attacking our union because we stand for the opposite—raising wages, protecting standards, and defending public services.
Q: How exactly is Opt Out Today trying to undermine workers’ rights?
A: The Freedom Foundation (aka Opt Out Today) signed on to a state “reform” plan that called for layoffs, hiring freezes, and privatizing public jobs. The Freedom Foundation has planned for years to weaken our unions and dismantle public services. Now, they’re trying to trick our members into leaving our union and weakening our power.
Q: What should I do if Opt Out Today targets me or my coworkers?
A: As we continue to fight for a fair Executive Branch contract through fact-finding and advocating living wages throughout Maine, it’s important to remember this: If we want to win, we have to be united. Please talk with your co-workers and tell them why you’re sticking with the union. And for anyone who hasn’t yet joined MSEA-SEIU Local 1989, it’s easy to become a member of our union; they can fill out a membership form here.
Q: Who can I contact at MSEA-SEIU Local 1989 if have a question about being targeted?
A: Contact MSEA-SEIU Membership Campaign Manager Kate Brennan by calling 207-622-3151.
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If you have any general questions or inquiries about being represented by MSEA, fill out our contact form and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.