Ballots Quote by Walter Reuther
“There's a direct relationship between the ballot box and the bread box, and what the union fights for and wins at the bargaining table can be taken away in the legislative halls.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: United Auto Workers Convention, 1949
Labor victories at the bargaining table can be undone by legislative actions, linking workers’ rights to political outcomes.
In simple terms: Union gains can be reversed by politics.
Stay politically engaged.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- union negotiations
- policy advocacy
- voter education
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What policies safeguard union wins?
- How can workers influence lawmakers?
Legislation may also protect gains despite political shifts.