First, study up on unionizing. Read about the benefits of unions, federal and state labor law, and common employer tactics used to discourage organization, so you can explain the benefits to your peers.

Keep it on the down low. It’s technically illegal for managers to try to stop you from forming a union, but historically that hasn’t stopped them. It’s better to avoid potential conflict.

You now have two choices.

You can start your own workplace union, which can be a bit expensive and difficult, but grants a lot of independence. The Amazon JFK8 Fulfillment Center built its own movement.

Alternatively, you can join an existing union, which has resources and experience to help you through the process. Here’s a starting place to get in contact with a union representative.

Form a committee of dedicated organizers to educate and persuade your coworkers to support the union. Adopt an issues program and a mission statement for what you want out of your union. Prepare for anti-union tactics from your employer. This is the meat and potatoes of organizing.

To file for an election for representation, 30% of employees must sign cards to support unionizing. Workers then submit a petition to the National Labor Relations Board and an election can be scheduled.

If workers get >50% support, they can ask the employer to recognize the union voluntarily and the next step can be skipped. However, management often files challenges against union petitions at this stage.

The National Labor Relations Board schedules the election. If workers achieve at least 50% support, the union is recognized.

Congratulations! You have helped construct the foundation of labor power and helped us collectively take a step toward reclaiming our percent.