LACMA Workers Form Union for Fair Wages and Improved Work Conditions

LACMA Workers Take Steps Toward Unionization Amid Growing Movement

In the heart of Los Angeles, a significant shift is occurring at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), where over 300 employees are spearheading an effort to form a union. This initiative, known as LACMA United, seeks to address longstanding issues of compensation and workload, mirroring a broader trend among cultural institutions in Los Angeles County.

These museum workers, including curators and guest relations staff, are collaborating with AFSCME District Council 36 to establish a formal representation. The move underscores a desire for fairer treatment as the museum approaches the completion of the David Geffen Galleries, an investment exceeding $700 million.

In an open letter to the museum's administration and board, the workers highlighted the challenge of stagnant wages in one of the world's most expensive cities. "Many employees are struggling with wages that have not kept up with the rising cost of living," the letter states.

The workers also pointed out that increased responsibilities have been placed on all departments due to high turnover and frozen positions, often without additional pay. With the formation of LACMA United, they aim to secure improvements in compensation, benefits, and transparency within the institution’s operations.

Senior publications editor Sara Cody expressed the need for this change: “I’ve had the privilege of editing books and exhibition materials at LACMA for nearly 25 years,” Cody noted. “Forming our union will ensure that we all have the resources and respect to consistently produce our best work as the museum moves forward.”

Echoing this sentiment, Sierra Schiano, a teacher for mobile programs, emphasized the importance of sustainable career support. “I love teaching kids about ancient art by holding actual ancient artifacts,” Schiano said. “But I would also love to have the support of a union to ensure that this job is part of a sustainable career.”

The LACMA workers have requested that their union be voluntarily recognized, contingent on demonstrating majority support, by November 5.

This movement at LACMA is part of a larger wave of unionization across Los Angeles County's cultural sector. Institutions like the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County have recently recognized their staff unions. These efforts, organized under AFSCME Cultural Workers United, highlight a growing demand for worker representation in the art and culture sector.