Monterey Bay Aquarium Workers Form Union for Better Pay and Benefits

Monterey Bay Aquarium Workers Join Forces Under AFSCME Union

MONTEREY, Calif – The staff at Monterey Bay Aquarium have taken a significant step forward by becoming part of the AFSCME union. This week, the workers shared the news of their successful union election on Instagram.

The workers expressed the importance of their achievement by stating, “This has been an incredibly meaningful, cross-divisional effort that has made waves in the way our staff connect with each other — and with our mission. As we move into the next phase of organizing, we’re excited to continue working together to shape a more equitable and connected workplace.”

The unionization efforts began in January through AFSCME Council 57, aimed at establishing Monterey Bay Aquarium Workers United, which consists of over 300 employees from various departments including animal care, guest experience, education, and marketing.

One of the key motivations for forming a union was to amplify the workers' voice in advocating for fair compensation, flexible working conditions, and enhanced benefits and accessibility provisions. The high cost of living in the region has made adequate pay a pressing issue, even though the aquarium is recognized as one of the top aquariums in the U.S.

This movement is part of a broader trend of unionization in cultural institutions nationwide, including aquariums, museums, libraries, and zoos. These efforts are supported by AFSCME Cultural Workers United, which represents a substantial number of cultural workers across the country.