A new pilot program is opening up a rare opportunity for union members to develop their creative voices—while building solidarity across the labor movement.
The UNITE HERE Education and Support Fund has launched an art residency for union members in Detroit, designed to support new voices and non-professional artists from across the labor movement. Applications are now open, with a deadline of May 15, 2026.
This four-week residency will bring together 4–6 union members for an immersive, in-person experience focused on creativity, storytelling, and leadership development. Participants will take a union leave of absence during the program and receive a $4,000 stipend to help offset lost wages.
The residency is intentionally geared toward rank-and-file members who may not identify as professional artists but are interested in exploring their creative voice. Organizers say the goal is to nurture imagination and confidence while strengthening connections across unions, sectors, and communities.
“This is about building leadership through creativity,” organizers note, “and creating space for workers to tell their own stories.”
The program is being developed in partnership with arts educators from across the labor movement, making it a truly multi-union effort. By bringing together participants from different unions and backgrounds, the residency aims to foster deeper solidarity and shared understanding.
Applicants must have the backing of their union local in order to apply.
An info session for union staff and potential applicants will be held on May 4 at 2:00pm ET.
For those interested in applying—or encouraging members to apply—more information is available below:
With limited spots available and a fast-approaching deadline, organizers encourage interested union members to apply soon.