in this day and age , the mouchers and looters in this case (bigdukes2) another freeloader who wants something free (protection,benefits,job security) without contributing anything to the Union for fighting for those such things the freeloader is seeking (sorry if it sounds harsh, but Im trying to type without cursing) . Society by and large for some reason now thinks programs such as welfare,wic food stamps and in this case being a Union member should come at no cost and is paid for by some rich elite . Its time for people to pay for themselves , and I do understand if you are physically unable or have some type of mental issue that does not allow you to provide and or pay your share . But Bigdukes already said he/she has been employeed at the same company most of us have been employeed at for the past 1 year , meaning he is able physically and mentally to do so . Stop scabbing and do your part , pay the dues , we do . Yea , sure the benefits will be provided to you the wether you pay dues or not , atleast in my region/district , but remember wether you have a conscious or not that most everybody you work beside are paying their dues and are contributing to pay for you , and when the time comes , yur co-workers will find out if your in or not and sometimes that can make things uncomfortable . Being in the union does not necessarily mean you have to agree with all that they are associated with politically or idealogically , but paying your dues does give you a voice .