Metropolitan Museum of Art Employees Advocate for Unionization

Workers at the Metropolitan Museum of Art have sought the National Labor Relations Board’s assistance for a union election involving nearly 1,000 full- and part-time employees. The push for unionization, led by Local 2110 UAW, highlights concerns over long-term pay inequities, job protection, and increasing workloads. Should the vote pass, nearly half of the museum’s 2,015 employees would be represented, marking a significant organizational change within the institution.

A spokesperson for The Met acknowledged the effort and affirmed the institution’s commitment to being both a leading art museum and a supportive workplace. The Met already maintains relationships with other unions and respects the current move for union representation.

The unionization effort aligns with a broader trend across key cultural institutions such as the Guggenheim, Whitney, and Brooklyn Museums, all organizing under Local 2110 UAW since pandemic restrictions eased.

The initiative, significantly driven by long-serving staff, reflects a desire for a collective voice in museum decisions affecting work policies and benefits—imperatives fueled by challenges like substantial capital projects impacting staff workload.

While specific demands for pay equity and benefits are yet to be outlined, The Met’s annual pay increase currently stands at 4%, with a substantial number of employees earning over $100,000. The movement underscores the importance of ensuring fair, communicative, and inclusive practices within such esteemed cultural institutions.