Staff wins union at School of the Art Institute

Ballots are in, our votes have been counted, and in a tremendous show of solidarity and optimism, our coworkers have decisively said yes to our union, Art Institute of Chicago Workers United! In all the vote was 115 Yes, 48 No with 44 ballots not counted due to being challenged by management. Not only that, we also voted to form one bargaining unit for all SAIC titles, because together, we are stronger.

In five business days, the results of our election will be certified. 

In the meantime, please join us on Zoom tonight at 6 p.m. to celebrate with our colleagues!

What’s next?

Now, as a union, we will take the next steps to shape our future at the school, gathering in listening sessions, surveying needs to inform bargaining priorities, and nominating and electing our bargaining team. This is the time to make your voice heard, regardless of your involvement in AICWU organizing so far. Everyone is welcome and everyone is needed.

By the end of the month you will receive a bargaining survey, the results of which will inform our first contract. And please plan to join one of our upcoming informational meetings to learn more and get involved; specifics on dates and times will be shared next week.

This is an incredible achievement—for us, for Chicago, and for cultural institutions across the country. Take a deep breath and savor this moment.

Then, let’s get back to work.