The Center for Union Facts, a Washington DC advocacy organization, has created several anti-union ads for television. The ads use ironic humor to get its message out to viewers. For example, in a 30-second commercial that aired on the Fox Network, a black construction worker says, “I really like how the union discriminates against minorities. Thanks union bosses!”
Other actors who pose as workers explain what they love about unions: paying dues, having their dues support politicians whom they don’t favor, and the fat cat lifestyles of union leaders.
The ads serve to drive home the message that unions offer sinecures to those in power who are out of touch with the rank and file. The messages also imply a level of corruption.
Altogether, these ads represent something new and should prove highly effective in clarifying the public perception of unions as isolated bodies that grant special favors to their top leaders while ignoring the basic needs of their members.
I should add that these commercials were filmed with non-union actors and crews. How could it be otherwise!
