Frequently Asked Questions

Unions 101

Through collectively bargaining for our union contract, we win workplace improvements that are legally binding.

How does having a union change the workplace?

With a union, we collectively bargain with museum leadership for a legally binding contract that covers all union-eligible employees. This bargaining process allows us to set transparent standards for our working conditions. Once that contract is agreed to by both parties and ratified by a vote of the union membership, museum leadership can’t change their minds.

Being in a union means we can negotiate with management as a group to win bigger workplace improvements than any of us could win on our own. Without a union, we might have the “right” to ask for things to change, but we have no power to actually make that happen and no way of knowing we are all being treated fairly

How do decisions get made?

Major union decisions—things like electing our officers, choosing a dues rate, and eventually ratifying our first contract—are made through democratic votes by the general union membership. These votes take place at general membership meetings that are chaired by elected union officers. To take part in these decisions, sign up as a union member today. You can learn more about membership here.

How do dues work?

Dues provide unions with the resources to win strong contracts—they’re a way for members to invest in each other and build collective power. We began collecting dues after we ratified our first contract. Our membership has voted to approve a percentage-based dues rate, allowing those of us who make more to contribute more. Everyone in the bargaining unit, whether they sign union cards or not, pays dues or equivalent fees for the benefits and protections of our contract.

Can I lose my job or be punished for publicly supporting a union?

It is against the law for management to fire or otherwise punish a union-eligible worker for being a union member or taking part in protected union activities. There is power in numbers, so we encourage workers to be public in their support of the union. Many PMA Union members have been proudly supporting the union in public for over two years. If you believe you are being retaliated against because of your support for the union, talk to a steward or contact us immediately at 397staff@dc47.org.

Our union

I’m new to the PMA and union-eligible. How do I get involved?

Welcome! We’re glad you’re here. The first step is to sign a digital membership card. Learn more about membership and how to sign up.

I want to know more about the union. Who can help me?

Stewards are union members who have volunteered to serve as first points of contact, and they’re happy to talk anytime. Reach out to one of our lead stewards or email us at 397staff@dc47.org to set up a time to talk one-on-one. Or just ask someone you see wearing a PMA Union button or sticker!

Why did PMA workers form a union? 

We unionized in 2020 in order to:

• Win a seat at the bargaining table,

• Have a say in the decisions that impact our lives and livelihoods, and

• Ensure that the museum continues to be a leader in Philadelphia and the nation.

In many ways, a PMA Union was long overdue. Stories of harassment and abuse at the PMA in the Philadelphia Inquirer and the New York Times have shone a spotlight on the inequities in our institution. Having a union gives us the ability to create a legally binding contract—the only way for us to guarantee real change. That’s why we won our election in a landslide with 89% of the vote.

Who is in the union?

The term for the group of positions covered by a union is called the “bargaining unit.” Workers who hold positions in the bargaining unit can sign up as union members. The PMA Union’s bargaining unit covers all union-eligible positions at the museum across all departments, giving us the power to work together to improve our working conditions.

Is my position union-eligible?

Who exactly is and isn’t union-eligible is a somewhat complicated legal determination. A good rule of thumb: if you get a paycheck from the PMA, do not have hiring or firing power over other workers, and are not classified as confidential staff, you’re probably eligible. Email us with your job title at 397staff@dc47.org and we can find out!

Who is AFSCME DC 47?

Our union is be affiliated with the American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). AFSCME District Council 47 is a progressive labor union that represents workers in the nonprofit, higher education, and government sectors in the Philadelphia region. AFSCME DC 47 represents workers at the Philadelphia Zoo, the Free Library, the University of Pennsylvania, Temple University, and the City of Philadelphia. AFSCME recently launched a website about all the AFSCME-affiliated unions at cultural organizations across the country, including the Art Institute of Chicago, Walker Art Museum, Penn Museum, Please Touch Museum, the Field Museum, and us.