Superstore: A Hilarious & Heartfelt Look at Unionization
The sitcom Superstore offers a surprisingly accurate portrayal of workplace dynamics and the struggle for unionization in a big-box store. The show tackles issues like cost-cutting measures, reduced employee hours, and the lack of benefits, such as paid maternity leave. In one poignant yet comedic scene, America Ferrera’s character suggests a cost-saving measure that involves reclassifying employees to strip them of benefits—a suggestion corporate readily adopts.
One of the most compelling storylines revolves around the employees’ attempts to unionize. Superstore realistically depicts the challenges faced by workers seeking better conditions, including management resistance, anti-union tactics, and the emotional toll on employees. The fifth season culminates in a poignant yet unsuccessful unionization attempt, mirroring real-world struggles. This storyline resonated with viewers who recognized similar power dynamics in their own workplaces.
The show’s strength lies in its nuanced portrayal of the conflict between corporate greed and employee well-being. Instead of a single villainous boss, Superstore identifies the systemic issues stemming from “corporate,” the faceless entity prioritizing profits over people. This prevents viewers from dismissing conflicts as isolated incidents and encourages them to recognize broader power imbalances. By highlighting these systemic issues, Superstore fosters a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by hourly wage workers.
Superstore cleverly illustrates how management undermines employee solidarity with seemingly benign gestures. “Employee appreciation day,” with its free massages and ice cream, is strategically timed to coincide with union organizing efforts. This tactic, reminiscent of real-world employer manipulation, highlights the lengths companies go to discourage unionization. The show draws parallels to events like the Slate Coffee walkouts, where management offered pizza instead of addressing real concerns.
The show realistically depicts the isolation and skepticism faced by union organizers. Their concerns are often dismissed, labeled as “agitators,” invalidating their grievances. Management emphasizes “fun” and camaraderie to mask power imbalances and discourage unionization. This underscores the difficulty of challenging power structures and the importance of recognizing worker concerns. Superstore prompts viewers to question the status quo and consider the perspectives of those who challenge it.
Superstore also tackles the psychological barriers to unionization, exploring the discomfort of challenging deeply held workplace beliefs. Trust in employers and a desire for a positive workplace image can hinder acknowledging systemic problems. The show encourages viewers to confront these truths and consider collective action. Superstore emphasizes that unions are not inherently adversarial but ensure fair treatment, communication, and worker voices.
The success of unionized workforces in countries like Denmark, where McDonald’s employees earn a living wage and the company remains profitable, challenges the anti-union narrative. Superstore implicitly raises these questions, prompting viewers to examine their biases and consider unions’ positive impact. The show sparks conversations about workplace equity and employee empowerment.
