Unionized workers at Film Forum, a renowned cinema in New York, have recently ratified their first contract, marking a significant milestone for the employees. The decision to unionize was made last year through a voting process, and now the workers have successfully negotiated and ratified a five-year agreement that will come into effect on July 1, 2023, and run through June 30, 2028.
The union, affiliated with UAW Local 2110, represents workers not only at Film Forum but also at other cultural institutions such as museums, universities, and publishers. Their successful unionization has paved the way for improved working conditions and increased benefits for the employees.
Stephanie Gross, a member of the bargaining committee and the repertory programming manager, expressed her satisfaction with the new contract, stating that it will make a real difference for the workers at Film Forum. The wage increases included in the agreement have been eagerly awaited and are well-deserved by the staff.
The new contract will result in an average salary increase of 12 percent for the workers. Entry-level pay for administrative workers will rise from a minimum of $35,000 a year to $46,000 a year. Additionally, all administrative staff will receive annual percentage increases ranging from 3 percent to 5 percent. Part-time theater staff will receive a minimum of $18 an hour, with annual increases ranging from $1 to $1.25 an hour. Facilities staff will have a minimum wage of $33 an hour, with annual increases also ranging from $1 to $1.25 an hour.
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In addition to the salary boosts, the agreement introduces several other benefits for the workers. There will be a 403(b) matching program, improved holiday pay for cinema and facilities workers, and the continuation of Film Forum’s single health coverage without employee contributions. Furthermore, the contract includes provisions for four weeks of paid parental leave, paid time off for diversity training, a labor-management committee, and a grievance procedure.
The Film Forum workers decided to unionize in June 2022, and their unanimous vote in favor of unionization was recognized by the National Labor Relations Board. The workers sought to address issues related to compensation, standardize working conditions, and transform organizational development practices through collective bargaining. Claudia Francois, the theater manager, emphasized the importance of union representation, especially during uncertain times, as it provides safety, security, and equity in the workplace.
With the ratification of their first contract, the Film Forum workers have achieved a significant victory. The agreement not only provides them with improved wages and benefits but also establishes a framework for addressing their concerns and grievances. This contract sets an example for other workers in the film industry and beyond, highlighting the importance of collective bargaining and unionization in ensuring fair and equitable treatment in the workplace.
The success of the unionized workers at Film Forum serves as a reminder of the power of solidarity and collective action. By coming together and advocating for their rights, they have secured a better future for themselves and set a precedent for others in the industry. The union’s alliance with UAW Local 2110 has further strengthened their position and allowed them to draw upon the support and expertise of a larger network of workers in cultural institutions.
Overall, the ratification of the first contract at Film Forum marks a significant step forward for the workers and showcases the positive outcomes that can be achieved through unionization. As the agreement goes into effect, the employees can look forward to improved wages, enhanced benefits, and a stronger voice in shaping their working conditions. The success of this unionization effort will undoubtedly inspire and empower other workers to pursue collective action and fight for their rights in their respective industries.
