Unrecognized Union: LACMA's Delayed Unionization Process Amid Federal Shutdown
The leadership of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) has chosen not to recognize the newly formed union, LACMA United, and has instead opted to pursue a National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) election. This decision has delayed the unionization process due to the federal government shutdown, which has paused NLRB elections. LACMA employees formed a union in late October in collaboration with the AFSCME Cultural Workers United District Council 36, seeking fair pay, job stability, better compensation, benefits, and transparency in institutional protocols and resources.
The unionization effort comes as LACMA prepares to open its new Peter Zumthor–designed building, the David Geffen Galleries, in April. The new building will showcase the museum's permanent collection in a reimagined installation, bringing together works that were previously separated. Despite the union's request for voluntary recognition by museum leadership, they have chosen to delay the process, prompting disappointment from LACMA United's organizing committee.
The AFSCME Cultural Workers United District Council 36 has assisted workers in unionizing at other prominent LA museums and nationally represents employees at various museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Art Institute of Chicago. LACMA United has emphasized the public nature of LACMA as a county museum, receiving significant public funding each year, and has filed with the California Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) to assert their status as public sector employees under county oversight.
The union's efforts to secure fair treatment and representation for LACMA employees reflect a broader movement within the cultural sector to advocate for workers' rights and fair compensation. As the unionization process continues, the dialogue between LACMA leadership and its employees will be crucial in shaping the future of the museum and its commitment to supporting its workforce.