MCA Chicago workers ratify first union contract, securing better terms

Union Milestone at Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago as Employees Approve First Contract

In a significant development for cultural workers in Chicago, employees at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) have successfully ratified their inaugural union contract. The agreement, which received overwhelming support from the Museum of Contemporary Art Workers United/AFSCME, marks a notable chapter in the collective bargaining landscape.

On March 26, an impressive 98% of participating union members voted in favor of the contract. The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) represents 72 staff members within the museum's artistic and operations sectors. AFSCME Council 31 Executive Director Roberta Lynch stated, “Chicago’s cultural workers are proving that when workers come together, they can win better wages, stronger protections and a voice on the job.” She emphasized that the contract honors the employees' hard work and dedication.

Madeleine Grynsztejn, MCA’s Pritzker director, echoed these sentiments, describing the agreement as reflective of a shared commitment to the museum's workforce. “This agreement supports our staff, strengthens our workplace, and helps position us for the future,” Grynsztejn remarked.

The four-year contract ensures a 12% wage increase for all covered employees, including a 3% retroactive raise effective from July 1, 2025. Additional benefits include a ratification bonus, bilingual pay for designated translators, and more.

Key contract provisions feature:

• Four weeks of paid parental leave for new parents through birth or adoption;
• An enhanced retirement plan;
• Maintained health insurance cost-sharing ratios, ensuring affordability;
• A grievance and arbitration process to address workplace issues equitably.

Efforts to unionize began publicly in February 2024, with MCA management recognizing the union in March of the same year. Negotiations kicked off in September 2024, culminating in a tentative agreement on March 18, 2026.

This achievement aligns with the broader AFSCME Cultural Workers United campaign, which has empowered over 50,000 workers in cultural institutions nationwide. For more information on the campaign, visit AFSCME Cultural Workers United.