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Research Essay Topic:
How has technology transformed union workplaces—from the pre-digital era of the 1980s–1990s to today—and what do you think this means for the future of worker organizing and solidarity?
Guiding Questions (optional but helpful):
- What did a typical union workplace look like before widespread use of computers and automation?
- How has technology changed job duties, workload, and workplace expectations?
- Has technology strengthened or weakened worker solidarity? Why?
- What new challenges (or opportunities) has technology created for unions today?
- Based on your research and interviews, what lessons should today’s labor movement take from the past?
Research Essay Requirements:
- Minimum 1,500 words
- Conduct at least two interviews with individuals who worked in unionized workplaces during the 1980s or 1990s (retired or current workers).
- Interviews may include relatives, union members, or community members.
a.If you are a union member, you may include your own experiences—but you must still complete two interviews.
- You must:
- Identify each interviewee (name, occupation, union if applicable in works cited/references section)
- Include direct quotes or summarized insights
- Compare and analyze differences between their experiences and today’s workplace
Essays must be the original work of the student, use of AI-generated writing tools, plagiarism, or copied content will result in immediate disqualification. Submissions may be checked using originality detection tools.
CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE AN ENTRY FORM
After completing the entry form, you must submit your essay to scholarship@ufcw1776.org
Awards:
1st PLACE: $5,000
2nd PLACE: $2,500
3rd PLACE: $1,000
EARL HELFAND HEART OF GOLD AWARD (for community service): $2,000
Eligibility:
- Applicant must be a member in good standing, or a dependent of a member who is under the age of 26.
- Applicant must be pursuing a degree or enrolled in a certificate program. You do not need to be a Full-time student to apply.
- Immediate family members/household members of UFCW Local 1776 staff are not eligible unless they are a UFCW member themselves.
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