The strength of the Union lies in its members and can be measured by their participation in its affairs and by their awareness of the Union's role in their lives.

Membership participation and awareness just doesn't grow — it must be cultivated. Workers need to be informed and to be shown the importance of vigilant enforcement of their Union contract and their rights on the job.

Stewards serve as the link between UFCW staff and workers, promoting union principles and assuring fairness and dignity in the workplace. If you don't know who your steward is, you can look them up here on our webiste.

A Stewards' Legal Rights

Often, prospective Stewards express a concern about possible retaliation by management. The fact is, Federal law guarantees Union members the right to participate in their Union's affairs. The National Labor Relations Act makes it illegal for an employer to discriminate against or harass Stewards or other Union activists.

Furthermore, you can always count on the full support of your Union staff to protect your legal and contractual rights.

A Stewards' Duties

1. Inform members about Union policies, activities and events.

2. Post and distribute official Union notices.

3. Attend Union membership meetings and encourage co-workers to do the same.

4. Welcome new members.

5. Answer questions about the Union and the Union contract when able.

6. Encourage voter registration and political action.

7. Poll members periodically on subjects directed by the Union.

8. Attend Steward seminars.

9. Act as a witness for members who are involved in disciplinary interviews (Weingarten rights).

10. Report contract violations to your Union Representative.

11. Monitor safety and health conditions.

Tools of the Trade

As a Steward, you'll have plenty of support and resources from your Union. In addition to regular Steward's seminars, you will have access to the Local 1459 Stewards Manual and the availability of the entire Local 1459 Staff.