Denver Public Workers Unionize After 20-Year Fight for Bargaining Rights

The Facts -

A Long Battle for Workers' Rights Ends in Victory for Denver's Public Sector Employees

In a significant development for labor rights, nearly 750 public sector employees in Denver have successfully become part of the Teamsters union. Specifically, 67 employees from the Audit Services Department and the Clerk and Recorders Office have joined Teamsters Local 455, while 682 professionals from the Crime Lab and Department of Transportation and Infrastructure have aligned with Teamsters Local 17.

Jesus “Chuy” Lopez, a Local 17 member and solid waste collection operator, emphasized the need for accountability: “We started organizing with the Teamsters to hold the city of Denver accountable for years of conditions getting worse and failing to look out for our best interests.” Lopez believes that a Teamsters contract is crucial not only for current workers but also for future ones, ensuring dignity and respect in their roles.

Jordon Monk, an internal senior auditor and member of Local 455, explained his motivation for organizing: “I chose to organize so my colleagues and I could have real decision-making power, fair wages, and meaningful benefits.” He highlighted the importance of maintaining rigorous, independent oversight by the Auditor’s Office, noting that a union contract helps sustain these standards regardless of leadership changes.

This triumph follows a 20-year effort to grant collective bargaining rights to these essential city and county workers. The breakthrough came in November 2024, when voters supported a pivotal charter amendment that gave these workers the right to unionize.

“For decades, Teamsters fought alongside these workers to secure them the right to collectively bargain,” stated Peter Finn, Director of the Teamsters Public Services and Health Care Division and International Vice President At-Large. He expressed optimism about assisting this group in negotiating their first contract.

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, established in 1903, represents a diverse group of 1.3 million workers across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. For more insights, visit Teamster.org. Stay updated on their initiatives by following them on X and Facebook.

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