New York Transit Museum Workers Form Union with DC 37 for Better Rights

New York Transit Museum Workers Secure Union Representation

In a significant move for its employees, the New York Transit Museum has witnessed its workforce unanimously vote to establish a union presence. This decision aligns them with many others across New York City's cultural landscape who have taken similar steps to enhance their working conditions.

Earlier in the year, museum management had declined a request for voluntary union recognition. This prompted the organizing committee to launch their campaign under the banner of the Transit Museum Collective with AFSCME District Council 37. The formal petition was subsequently filed with the National Labor Relations Board on March 10, leading to this month's decisive vote.

Henry Garrido, executive director of District Council 37 and an AFSCME vice president, praised the efforts of the museum staff, stating, “It’s clear these workers are passionate about carrying out the museum’s mission, and they have done an incredible job fighting for their right to unionize.” He further remarked on the union's commitment to advocating for fair wages and dignified working conditions.

The newly unionized group, comprising 30 members working in both full-time and part-time roles in museum education and visitor experience, adds to the growing list of institutions under DC 37. The New York Transit Museum, known for its rich history of urban public transportation systems, boasts a notable collection, including vintage rail cars that attract numerous visitors.

As New York City's largest public employee union, DC 37 represents 150,000 workers and 50,000 retirees, covering prestigious cultural establishments such as the American Museum of Natural History and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Nationwide, the AFSCME Cultural Workers United campaign has facilitated union representation for over 50,000 workers in museums, libraries, and zoos, making it the largest initiative of its kind in the U.S.