Guggenheim Union Stages Rally During Carol Bove Exhibition Opening

Title: Guggenheim Museum Workers Rally for Fair Contract Amidst Exhibition Opening

On the evening of March 4, amid the opening reception for Carol Bove’s solo exhibition at the Guggenheim Museum in New York, museum workers gathered outside to demand a fair contract. Unionized under Local 2110 UAW, they raised concerns about high healthcare costs and job insecurity following the abrupt layoff of 20 employees the previous year.

The demonstration, led by Drew Reynolds, a museum educator and union chair, alongside veteran labor organizer Maida Rosenstein, attracted around 30 participants. They sought to pressure the museum to be more flexible in contract negotiations, addressing healthcare plans costing up to $4,500 annually for families. Last year’s layoffs, affecting 14 union positions, prompted an unfair labor practice charge, as workers were reportedly given only 30 minutes’ notice before being terminated.

While the museum hasn’t commented on these allegations, Rosenstein criticized their re-hiring practices and reliance on outside consultants. She and others underscored the need for fair wages, criticizing the $24 hourly rate for entry-level staff.

Supporting the protest, Liz Jaff, a lead paper specialist, reiterated the solidarity between unions. Attendees like Maggie Heath appreciated the union’s visibility during such events, highlighting the shared commitment to ensuring sustainable work for museum employees.