AFSCME’s Saunders: International Museum Day comes as cultural workers across the country are making a stand

WASHINGTON – AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement recognizing International Museum Day:

“Many people have cherished stories about the trips they took to museums and what they learned about themselves and the world. Museum and cultural workers make those moments happen. They preserve history and art, teach us about science, and inspire creativity and innovation. Over the past five years, they have also led a wave of labor organizing that is changing and improving what it means to be a museum worker.

“This year, workers at the Denver Art Museum formed Colorado’s first-ever museum union with a goal of reducing unsustainable staff turnover. And the movement continues to grow in Chicago, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Baltimore and New York, where cultural workers have won 40 union elections covering 4,400 workers, with the most recent victory at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago in April. These passionate and dedicated professionals join the ranks of AFSCME’s Cultural Workers United, which is now 40,000 members strong in more than 25 states.

“With union momentum on their side, cultural workers are ensuring that these beloved institutions remain accessible to everyone in our communities. That is cause for celebration on this International Museum Day.”