Workers at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) announced their intention on Tuesday to form a union with AFSCME
Cultural Workers United (CWU), becoming the latest museum employees to begin their fight for a voice on the job.
Under the name DIA Workers United, these staff members help make possible one of the country's largest art collections, containing more than 65,000 pieces. Workers are hoping organizing a union will help them secure fair compensation, clearer career progression and more workplace transparency.
“Strong cultural institutions make strong communities,” Francesca Catalfio, a spokesperson for DIA Workers United, said. “We’re proud of the work we do to connect people to art and culture every day. Now we’re organizing for the same respect and dignity we show the public because a stronger DIA starts with a fair workplace for everyone.”
- AFL-CIO Daily Brief