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Family at War

Sax

04:41 / 16.01.02

After 12 years in journalism, and being highly active in the NUJ., today I crossed a picket line to come into work. It didn't feel great.
The union is striking over pay, and holding a series of one-day stoppages. Basically, I am now in a "management" position and no longer feel it would be appropriate to be an active union member.
However, it does jibe completely with the principles I've had since a child, and I felt very uncomfortable walking into work today - especially as my fiancee was holding a placard as I passed!
But what the hell do you do?

Shortfatdyke

05:30 / 16.01.02

hmm. you still in the union? if so, surely you are bound (morally at any rate) to abide by the union's decision? i have stood on picket lines and seen colleagues go in to work, be allowed to leave early as some kind of 'treat', who would've benefitted had we won the strike without having to do anything. grates somewhat. what would happen if you joined the strike?

Sax

05:43 / 16.01.02

I am no longer in the union. I felt my job as manager of a department would be a conflict of interests, especially as I am privy to confidential management information.
If I had joined the strike, my position at the company would basically have become untenable - as much was said to me in veiled terms by senior management. Basically, I'd have had to look around for another job.

Shortfatdyke

06:07 / 16.01.02

in which case you're in a difficult position. i understand you must feel crummy, and certainly can't be too judmental here - bearing in mind i am too uneducated/scruffy/unambitious/wierd looking to ever get a managerial position.....

Sax

06:14 / 16.01.02

I am probably all those things as well, SFD. I just manage to fall into these positions, somehow...

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