LONG BEACH, California – The workers who keep Southern California’s largest aquarium running overcame management’s union-busting tactics and won their union.

Members of Aquarium of the Pacific Workers United in Long Beach are now part of AFSCME District Council 36. 

“With our vote, the workers of Aquarium of the Pacific Workers United finally have a seat at the table,” said Angie Pulmano, a member of the organizing committee. “I am beyond proud of my team. I’m looking forward to a future filled with empathy for one another and respect for the workers that make this place run.” 

The new union represents about 108 workers, including environmentalists, educators, guest services associates and more. They play a vital role in creating a welcome and educational environment for the 1.6 million people who visit the Aquarium of the Pacific (AOP) each year.  

 “Better work comes from workers who are taken care of and heard. I love the work I do and want to be able to continue to do it in a work environment that supports the health and safety of me and my colleagues,” said Lurdez Puga, an education specialist at the aquarium. 

As they prepare to negotiate their first contract, the employees are focused on establishing avenues for professional development, limiting the use of generative artificial intelligence, and ensuring that employees have livable wages.  

The National Labor Relations Board conducted the union election on Monday. Workers voted to organize despite captive audience meetings and other union-busting tactics by management. The victory proves that when workers stand together they can win a voice on the job. 

“This experience has taught me a lot about what it takes to fight for workers’ representation. The world is full of uncertainties, but AOP management doesn’t have to steer through the unknown alone,” said Noel King, a member of the organizing committee. “We deserve a seat at the table to negotiate changes for a better workplace.” 

The workers said they wanted a better work environment, which, in turn, would make the aquarium even better for visitors. 

“We work hard every day, often doing the work of multiple people while facing constant changes and high expectations,” said Krystal Gonzales, who works in environmental services at AOP. “We’re not asking for special treatment; we’re asking for fair workloads, support, respect, and a voice in the workplace. We’re coming together because our voices matter.” 

More than 50,000 workers in libraries, museums, zoos, and other cultural institutions nationwide have gained a seat at the table and a voice on the job through AFSCME Cultural Workers United, the largest organizing effort of its kind in the nation.