The union times., 1946-09-07
MUST MOBILIZE

mittee which l have appointed in accordance with the resolution adopted last January has shown that it has a sound program for political activities to be carried on by our uniOns," Collins said. ''In fact, this Committee has anticipat- ed President William Greens ad- vice that A. F. of L. unions should mobilize their membership for the fight on the political front.
 What good is it to make gains through our economic strength when reactionary forces by the use of their political maneuveringS whittle them down? Labor remains no better off, but often is left in a worse position, when hostile political forces gang up on the workers. 1 shall leave 1t to Secretary Treasurer Joe Rourke properly to characterize the 79th Con- gress. He can't make 1t too strong to suit me.
 ''I am confident, however, that if our affiliated organizations will follow the suggestions of our NOn- Partisan Political Committee, and see that every member is a regist- cred voter and that effective can- wasting work is done among work CTS, including returned veterans, the Both Congress will be truly pro- gressive and enact the legislation essential to assure lasting prosper. ity and security for our people.
 A New Phase
 Our political activity has entered a new phase, and must be taken more seriously by every A. F. of L. mem- Der. It should not be regarded merely as side issue, but on a par with our economic efforts. Most delegates, am aware, have been trained in the union school of organization and contract negotiation and not many are experi- enced in the sphere of politics. Neces- sity, however, is compelling all of us to acquire an education in political ac- ton.
 Avoid Pitfalls
 May suggest that we should be aware of the pitfalls of politics in this activity on behalf of labor, that we should think more of principle than of expediency. Especially should we be on guard against the politician who waves his union card around while his voting is guided by selfish aspirations, by his desire for political preferment at the hands of his party bosses. The union man in politics who is politi- clan first and a labor man second IS not entitled to our confidence"
 Higher Wages
 Unless higher wages are paid for increased production, there will be much industrial unrest, Collins pre- dicted
 While labor's emphasis is being placed on greater efficiency and pro- ductivity for the immediate future, un- less management comedies that the workers are entitled to fairer share in the increased production that will follow, there will be a resumption of industrial unrest and a collapse of the business prosperity that now prevails" he said.
 ''The allegation is made repeat edIy that wages are high. Average of course, have greatly in- creased over those in effect, in the prewar years, but this fact only exposes how depressed wages were then. Wage rates, as a matter of fact, are still entirely too low. To maintain a family of four in health and decency at least $3,5OO to S4,OOO a year is required. This means that hourly rates should average $l.75 to $2 an hour. In- stead we find in Connecticut for she month of June average hourly in the service industries were only 89 cents, in wholesale and retail trade 90 cents, in man. SLIP, in utilities and transportation $1.13 and in the industry, $l.S7. Ob- rates are highest in the last because the building trades workers are well organized.
 We cannot be satisfied until wage rates are high enough in all indus tries to provide an income adequate for the proper support of a workers family. This standard should mean home with modern con-