Union FAQs

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 management 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, management 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.

What are dues?

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. Each chapter begins collecting dues after ratifying the 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.

The union is you and your colleagues, together.

Who is AFSCME Local 397 Philly Cultural Workers United?

That’s us, the Philadelphia Museum of Art Union, Penn Museum Workers United, Please Touch Museum United, and Schuylkill Center Staff United! AFSCME Local 397 was established as a local of AFSCME District Council 47 in 2020, with the PMA Union as its first chapter.

Learn more about our local here.

Who is AFSCME DC 47?

Our union is 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, the Field Museum, and us, Philly Cultural Workers United.

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 Union’s bargaining unit covers all union-eligible positions at each institution across all departments, giving us the power to work together to improve our working conditions.

What is a wall-to-wall union?

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 Philly Cultural Workers United button!