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Barack Quote by Noam Chomsky

“Private sector unionization is down to practically seven percent. Meanwhile the public sector unions have kind of sustained themselves [even] under attack, but in the last few years, there's been a sharp [increase in the] attack on public sector unions, which Barack Obama has participated in, in…” quote by Noam Chomsky
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“Private sector unionization is down to practically seven percent. Meanwhile the public sector unions have kind of sustained themselves [even] under attack, but in the last few years, there's been a sharp [increase in the] attack on public sector unions, which Barack Obama has participated in, in fact. When you freeze salaries of federal workers, that's equivalent to taxing public sector people.”

Noam Chomsky

About This Quote

Source Speech: Interview on labor trends, 2015

Union membership in private firms is very low while public unions remain strong despite political attacks, highlighting differing pressures on labor sectors.

In simple terms: Private unions are weak; public unions stay strong despite attacks.

Key Takeaway

Recognize sector differences and support policies that protect workers.

Themes

labor politics unionization public vs private policy

Mood

concerned analytical

Type

commentary political

When to use this quote

  • policy advocacy
  • labor organizing
  • government budgeting
  • public sector negotiations

Key Concepts

collective bargaining political pressure economic disparity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can private sector workers be mobilized?
  • What policies protect public unions?
A Different Perspective

Public unions face political backlash that can undermine gains.

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