The recent layoffs at the Brooklyn Museum have sparked outrage among current and former employees, as well as supporters of the institution. More than 200 people gathered outside the museum during a fundraising event to protest the decision to lay off nearly 50 staff members. Demonstrators held signs with messages like “Art Workers Won’t Kiss Ass” and “Say, Brooklyn Museum, Heard You Can’t Read a Contract!” The rally was organized by District Council 37 Local 1502 and UAW Local 2110, the two unions representing workers at the museum.
Liz St. George, an assistant curator and unit chair for Local 2110, expressed the workers’ frustration with the layoffs, stating that the museum did not respect their contract and failed to give proper notice of the reorganization. The museum, however, maintains that it is negotiating in good faith with the unions and will continue to do so.
The layoffs come amidst a $10 million budget deficit, with Director Anne Pasternak citing the need for “difficult cuts and strategic investments.” The decision to cut staff while spending millions on events to celebrate the museum’s 200th anniversary has been met with criticism. Pasternak herself received over $1 million in compensation in 2023, while other senior leadership members earned significant salaries as well.
Elected officials, including Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and Council Member Crystal Hudson, have joined the protest, calling on the city to help cover the museum’s deficit. The community is rallying in support of the laid-off workers, with many expressing their disappointment in the museum’s actions.
Rafael Ramos, a retired New York Aquarium employee, attended the protest to show his support for the workers. He emphasized the importance of standing up for those at risk of losing their jobs, especially in a city facing an affordability crisis. The fight to save the jobs of those affected by the layoffs at the Brooklyn Museum continues, with workers, supporters, and elected officials coming together to demand justice and fairness for all involved.
