Metropolitan Museum of Art employees unionize, citing heavy workloads and pay equity concerns

"The vote passed with a 76% margin, with 542 votes in favor, 172 votes against, and 100 ballots that remain sealed because the museum objected to inclusion of these staff in the union, according to a Jan. 16 announcement from the union. We won because we were able to convince our colleagues that they don't have to accept whatever is offered to them, that their experience and hard work has earned them a seat at the table,"

"In a statement to amNewYork, a Met spokesperson wrote that the museum has long been committed to supporting its exceptional staff with highly competitive salaries and benefit packages that surpass industry standards; robust professional development opportunities; and a culture that values inclusivity, creativity, collaboration, and excellence. We are proud of our well-established history of working together with DC37 and Local 306 IATSE, and look forward to engaging with the UAW"

Metropolitan Museum of Art employees voted to unionize with 542 votes in favor, 172 against, and 100 ballots sealed after the museum objected to inclusion of those staff. Employees cited concerns about workloads, pay equity, job security, and transparency about employment policies. The vote follows a November petition and four years of organizing. The new union is part of United Auto Workers Local 2110 and represents nearly 1,000 employees, making it one of the largest museum unions nationwide. The museum stated it provides competitive salaries, robust benefits, professional development, and values inclusivity while noting prior collaborations with other unions and an intent to engage with the UAW. The museum did not respond to an inquiry about its challenge to the sealed ballots.

Read at www.amny.com