Owen Quote by Ron Suskind
““Two hours a day for two days per week. Four hours. At $7.25 an hour, that gave him a gross income of $29 a week. He is also now a member of the United Food and Commercial Workers International, the union that represents food workers, retail clerks, and farm workers. His monthly dues for the UFCW are $25, all taken out of his first week’s check. That makes Owen arguably the most selfless labor activist in America, with 86 percent of his pay going to support his union.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Power of Habit, Charles Duhigg, 2012
The passage highlights how a low-wage worker sacrifices most of his earnings to support a union, illustrating extreme personal commitment to collective bargaining.
In simple terms: A worker gives away most of his pay to help his union.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the cost of activism.
Themes
labor rights
activism
solidarity
economics
unionism
Mood
determined
reflective
Type
political
social
economic
When to use this quote
- low‑wage jobs
- union membership
- political organizing
- budgeting
- advocacy
Key Concepts
collective bargaining
self‑sacrifice
worker empowerment
Questions to Reflect On
- Is such sacrifice sustainable for individuals?
- How do unions balance member needs with dues?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook personal financial stability and long‑term sustainability.
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