Definitions of Yellow-Dog Contract

When it comes to labor agreements, one term that you may have come across is ”yellow-dog contract.” But what exactly does this term mean? Let`s dive into the definitions of yellow-dog contracts.

Yellow-dog contracts, also known as iron-clad oaths or anti-union oaths, are contracts that require employees to sign an agreement stating that they will not join or participate in any labor union. The term ”yellow-dog” refers to a ”yellow dog contract” being so restrictive that a worker would have to be a ”yellow dog” to sign it.

Yellow-dog contracts were used extensively in the late 19th and early 20th century as a way for employers to prevent unions from forming and for managers to maintain control over their workforce. These contracts were often used in industries such as mining, steel, and railroads. Employers would use fear tactics, such as firing employees who refused to sign the contracts, to force workers into compliance.

However, in 1932, the Norris-La Guardia Act was passed, which made yellow-dog contracts illegal. This law prevented employers from using any type of contract or agreement that interfered with employees` rights to join or participate in a labor union.

Despite being illegal, some companies may still attempt to use anti-union tactics, such as threatening to terminate employees who participate in union activities or using coercive tactics to prevent union formation. If you believe that your employer is engaging in illegal anti-union activities, you can contact the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) for assistance.

In summary, yellow-dog contracts were used in the past as a way for employers to prevent unions from forming. They required employees to sign an agreement stating that they would not join or participate in any labor union. However, they are now illegal, and employers cannot use any type of contract or agreement that interferes with employees` rights to join or participate in a labor union.

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