Monterey Bay Aquarium workers announce plans to unionize with AFSCME

[Omaha Steve]

Workers at Monterey Bay Aquarium in California launched a campaign to unionize their workplace. Photo credit: Andrew Dudenbostel

https://www.afscme.org/blog/monterey-bay-aquarium-workers-announce-plans-to-unionize-with-afscme

By AFSCME Staff · Friday, January 17, 2025

Monterey, Calif. – Workers at the Monterey Bay Aquarium launched a campaign to unionize their workplace this week and are seeking representation through AFSCME Council 57.

The aquarium workers are organizing as Monterey Bay Aquarium Workers United (MBAWU). The new union would cover more than 300 workers across the aquarium, including workers in animal care, guest experience, education, marketing and more.

The workers are forming their union to advocate for fair pay, workplace flexibility, comprehensive benefits and better accessibility accommodations. MBAWU believes that the aquarium can better serve the community and inspire ocean conservation when employees are treated with respect and equity.

“The aquarium is a wonderful place to work with a strong mission, but we have seen many of our colleagues leave due to wages not keeping up with the local cost of living,” said Cristie Beilby, an aquarist at Monterey Bay Aquarium and member of the union’s organizing committee. “I imagine a future where returning visitors recognize familiar faces. We can continue to retain and elevate our colleagues by making sure that we are meeting their needs and creating security and stability.”

FULL story at link above.

[Nictuku]

1. Awesome!!!