The Guggenheim Museum in New York City was the site of a powerful demonstration on March 4, as museum workers rallied for a fair contract during the opening reception for artist Carol Bove’s solo exhibition. Organized by the museum workers’ union Local 2110 UAW, the rally aimed to shed light on issues such as high healthcare costs and job insecurity faced by the employees.
Around 30 museum workers and supporters gathered outside the museum’s iconic rotunda, carrying signs, chanting slogans, and distributing flyers to inform event attendees and passersby about their grievances. Drew Reynolds, a museum educator and chair of the Guggenheim Museum union, along with veteran labor organizer Maida Rosenstein of Local 2110 UAW, led the demonstration.
Reynolds emphasized the need for the museum to reconsider its stance on job security protections and healthcare benefits, which he claimed were unaffordable for many employees. According to him, individual healthcare plans cost a minimum of $1,600 annually, while family plans could cost upwards of $4,500. The union’s proposals to address these issues have reportedly been rejected by the museum management.
The rally also highlighted the layoffs of 20 Guggenheim employees last year, which the union alleges were carried out without proper notice as required by the contract. Reynolds and Rosenstein criticized the museum for prioritizing outside consultants over its own staff and for failing to justify the selection of employees for termination.
Liz Jaff, the Guggenheim’s lead paper specialist and shop steward for IUOE Local 30, joined the rally in solidarity with the workers represented by Local 2110 UAW. She emphasized the importance of supporting each other’s unions and advocating for fair treatment of all employees.
Overall, the demonstration at the Guggenheim Museum served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by museum workers in the cultural sector. As negotiations continue for the next contract ratification, the workers remain determined to fight for their rights and a fair deal from the museum management. I found myself standing in line outside the museum, surrounded by a crowd of eager guests. As the night fell, the museum came alive with activity, with guests arriving in Ubers and taxis, ready to experience the art and culture within its walls. As I made my way to the entrance, I couldn’t help but notice the union flyers being passed out to attendees. It was clear that there was a strong presence of the union on this particular night.
One attendee, Maggie Heath, expressed her support for the union, noting that it was important to have visibility on a night when there were undoubtedly wealthy individuals in attendance. The union was working to ensure that those who worked in museums, including those along Museum Mile, were able to have sustainable and fulfilling careers.
As I made my way through the museum, I couldn’t help but think about the passion and dedication of those who worked behind the scenes. Each person I spoke to who had joined the union shared a common sentiment – they loved their jobs. They were passionate about the work they did and the impact it had on others. However, they also recognized the importance of making their work sustainable for the long term.
The glossy pro-union buttons that flashed in the light of passing cars served as a reminder of the collective effort to make positive change within the museum industry. The union was fighting for fair wages, benefits, and working conditions for those who dedicated their lives to preserving and sharing art and culture.
As I wandered through the galleries, I was struck by the beauty and power of the art around me. Each piece told a story, capturing a moment in time or a feeling that resonated with viewers. It was clear that the work of those in the museum industry was essential in preserving these stories for future generations.
As the night came to a close and I made my way back outside, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to witness the impact of the union firsthand. The dedication and passion of those who worked within the museum industry was evident in every corner of the building. I left feeling inspired by their commitment to their craft and their determination to make a difference.
