RWDSU Local 3 Welcomes Every New Bloomingdale’s Hire with Union Education from Day One
In Vogue and In Solidarity: RWDSU Local 3 Makes Union the Must-Have Look
At the iconic Bloomingdale’s flagship store on 59th Street in New York City, union pride starts on day one. Thanks to RWDSU Local 3 United Storeworkers strong union contract, every new hire receives a personal introduction to their union rights, protections, and the power of collective action the moment they begin their journey on the job.
Each week, Local 3 leadership conducts union orientation sessions as part of the store’s onboarding process. These sessions ensure that new workers learn about the value of being an RWDSU member, including a clear understanding of Weingarten rights—the right to union representation during any meeting that could lead to discipline (more in depth information below).
Led by RWDSU Local 3 President Shaun Kavanagh and Secretary-Treasurer James Eisenberg, the orientations don’t just provide information – they build a foundation of solidarity and support. In a retail industry that too often leaves workers without a voice, Local 3 shows new hires that they are not only not alone, now they have real power through a union.
“We want every new member to feel empowered from day one,” said RWDSU Local 3 President Shaun Kavanagh. “When workers understand their rights and the role the union plays in protecting them, they’re more confident, more connected, and better prepared.”
Local 3’s commitment to education and engagement strengthens the union from the ground up, ensuring that the next generation of Bloomingdale’s workers carries on the tradition of solidarity, dignity, and respect in the workplace.
Through early outreach and consistent presence, RWDSU Local 3 continues to show that union power starts with knowledge—and grows with every member who joins the fight.
“When workers understand their rights and the protections they have through the union, they’re stronger and more confident on the job. Our orientation isn’t just a formality—it’s the foundation of solidarity. We want every new member to know from day one that they’re not alone; they’re part of a union that has their back,” said James Eisenberg, Secretary-Treasurer of RWDSU Local 3.
What Are Weingarten Rights?
Weingarten Rights, named after a landmark 1975 U.S. Supreme Court case, guarantee union members the right to union representation during any meeting with management that could lead to discipline. These rights are a cornerstone of union protection, and knowing them empowers workers to speak up and protect themselves.
Weingarten Rights Include:
The Right to Request Representation – If a meeting with a supervisor could lead to discipline, a union-represented worker can ask for a steward to be present.
The Right to Delay the Meeting – The meeting must be postponed until a union representative is available.
The Right to Know the Subject – Workers have the right to know what the meeting is about and to consult with their steward before and during the meeting.
The Right to Remain Silent – If representation is denied, the worker may choose not to answer questions and cannot be punished for doing so.
By covering these rights in detail during orientation, RWDSU Local 3 helps ensure every member enters the workplace informed, confident, and protected.