Glossary
Arbitration The referral of collective bargaining or grievance disputes to an impartial third party. Usually the arbitrator's decision is final and binding.
Boycott The term originated in 1880 when an Irish landowner, Captain Charles Boycott, was denied all services. Today the expression means collective pressure on employers by refusal to buy their goods or services.
Collective Bargaining The determination of wages and other conditions of employment by direct negotiations between the union and employer.
Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) The contract that embodies the results of the negotiations between the employer and the union, and sets forth their agreements.
Hot Cargo A clause in a union contract which says that workers cannot be compelled to handle goods from an employer involved in a strike.
Impasse The point in collective bargaining negotiations at which either party determines that no further progress can be made toward reaching an agreement.
Lockout When an employer closes down the factory in order to coerce workers into meeting his demands or modifying their demands.
Mediation During negotiations, one or both parties may call in a mediator, who is a neutral third party. The mediator has no power to force a settlement, but works with the parties to help them arrive at a mutually acceptable agreement.
Pension Fund which is employers and employees may add to during a person's working years that can be drawn on for monthly support after a person has retired.
Picket Line A boundary established by workers on strike, especially at the entrance to the place of work, which others are asked not to cross.
Rank and file The members of a union.
Ratification Formal approval of a newly-negotiated agreement by a vote of the employees in a bargaining unit. Eligible voters in a union ratification are determined by the union’s bylaws and constitution.
Scab A worker who refuses to join the union or who works while others are striking. Also known as a "strikebreaker."
Solidarity Unity between people who have shared interests or a common goal.
Strike A temporary stoppage of work by a group of employees, not necessarily union members, to express a complaint, enforce a demand for changes in conditions of employment, obtain recognition, or resolve a dispute with management.
Strike Fund Money used to pay members of a union who are on strike and not receiving their regular pay.