Union Campaign to Boost Image of Public Workers

Every single negative view of unions they brought on themselves. Their greed and strong arm tactics have proven to be the anti-image boost.

Many people, me included, have images in our head of union thugs being bussed to events to bully peaceful people. That sure doesn't help your image either.

Being unwilling to negotiate benefits and salaries to save a company from going bankrupt, yep, that's another image killer.

Constantly trying to influence the political process for your own gain. Also not good for the old image.

All the campaigns in the world aren't going to change how people view the actions that you will never stop doing. Maybe you should try being a part of the team and not acting like a bunch of money grubbing thugs...

By Sam Hananel - Associated Press

Union leaders plan to launch a multimillion dollar campaign to boost the image of government workers and change a political climate that has tilted against organized labor in dozens of states.

Officials at the AFL-CIO say unions plan to get their message out with phone banks, public rallies, and stepped-up lobbying efforts in at least a dozen state legislatures.

The scope of the effort is unusual in a non-election year. It signals a growing concern that unions could lose significant clout, especially in states where legislatures are now under Republican control.

Cash-strapped states from New York to California want to freeze wages or cut pension benefits of public employees to help balance budgets. Other states may take away the right of unions to use payroll deductions for political purposes.