What is considered the single most important tool in an organizing program?

Salting is considered the single most important tool in an organizing program because it actively engages with workers in their place of employment. This method involves union members or organizers applying for jobs at non-union companies and working alongside employees to build relationships and educate them about the benefits of union membership. Salters can provide insight into the advantages of union representation while underlining the disadvantages of remaining unorganized.

This proactive approach not only helps identify potential organizing opportunities but also fosters trust within the workforce, enabling a more effective campaign for union membership. By integrating with workers on the job, salters can gather valuable information on workplace conditions, grievances, and the overall interests of employees, which are crucial for tailoring the organizing strategy to address specific concerns.

In contrast, while union contracts, membership drives, and collective bargaining are all essential components of union activities, they are typically processes that follow the initial organizing efforts. Salting, however, directly contributes to establishing the groundwork for organizing and union growth, making it a fundamental tool in the program.