Following 22 years in the grocery industry and a historic contract in 2023, Union steward Sue from Cub Foods stepped up to help her coworkers fight for justice in the workplace.
“I asked my coworker Sam if he had gotten his raise,” Sue said. “He hadn’t.”
Sam had been working for years as a pharmacy technician. His Union contract guaranteed him $30.33/hr. That’s nearly $8/hr more than he was currently being paid.
Sue encouraged Sam to speak with his store director. His director promised Sam that he’d look into it. Days turned into weeks, and he still wasn’t given his raise.
“I told him that the contract is clear. You’re owed that pay.”
Weeks turned into months, and Sam’s paycheck didn’t reflect his raise.
Sue connected Sam with the Member Action Center (MAC), UFCW 663 members’ resource for contract questions and enforcement.
Paul Swanson, our MAC representative, contacted Cub Foods to let them know that Sam has been underpaid for nearly a year. After some back and forth, a settlement was reached. Sam’s backpay arrived on his next paycheck. The total? $11,802.
“Last March, I realized my paycheck didn’t include the annual raise guaranteed in my contract. I kept asking about it, but for nearly a year my employer stalled” said Sam. “It wasn’t until I reached out to my Union steward that things finally moved, and I was paid what I was owed.”
“Be informed. Know your contract. Know your pay,” Sue said. “And if something doesn’t seem right, talk to your steward. If you don’t have a steward, call the MAC.”
Through her involvement and the 663 steward program, Sue gained more than just knowledge of the contract. She built her confidence, communication skills, and a deeper understanding of how to advocate for others.
“When you’re in a union, you’re not alone,” she said. “And when you stand up for your rights, things can change for the better.”
If you’re interested in becoming a steward, talk to your organizer, or reach out to the MAC by calling (800)-292-4105 or emailing us at MAC@ufcw663.org.