In non-union workplaces, few workers know what their coworkers earn. Women often report they’re making less than their male coworkers who are newer to the job. Workers of all backgrounds report being passed over for promotions or more favorable shifts in favor of their supervisors’ friends.

With a union contact, the same policies, standards, and rules apply to everyone equally. Workers of equal skill and equal seniority are paid the same, and earn the same wage increases so long as they perform their work to the established standard. This puts a stop to unfair practices like favoritism, nepotism, and discrimination. The requirements for getting a pay raise, getting a promotion, moving to a more favorable shift can be spelled out in the union contract. Furthermore, a union contract is legally binding. If your employer violates the contract, you have a union representative to remedy the issue.

For women who work at Siemens: Under the California Equal Pay Act, if you’re doing “substantially similar work” as a male coworker, by law you’re required to earn equal pay. For example, if you’re a welder working alongside a male welder, your employer must pay you the exact same wage. It’s the law.

According to Cal-OSHA, employers must provide at least the minimum number of toilet facilities, in toilet rooms separate for each sex, and prompt access to the facilities when needed.

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibits employers from treating you differently, or less favorably, because of your sex. That includes pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

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