Under the NLRA, which of the following is a protected right?

The right to join together for mutual aid or protection is a fundamental aspect of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). This provision is essential in fostering collective bargaining and ensuring that employees can communicate and act collectively regarding their working conditions, pay, and other aspects of their employment. The NLRA aims to protect employees in their efforts to organize and advocate for their interests, recognizing that collective action is often more effective in negotiating with employers compared to individual efforts.

This protected right allows employees to form, join, or assist labor organizations, thereby enhancing their ability to address grievances and engage in negotiations with their employers. It establishes a legal framework that encourages cooperation and communication among workers, which is vital for safeguarding workers' rights and improving working conditions.

The other options, while related to employment rights, do not have the same level of protection under the NLRA. For instance, walking off the job without reason may not be protected unless it is related to an ongoing labor dispute. Similarly, the right to refuse to pay union dues can vary based on specific agreements and state laws, while negotiating independently does not encompass the protection intended by the NLRA, which emphasizes collective action.