Yesterday in Brooklyn, while visiting my usual lunch venue, I observed a worker clad in a giant lettuce leaf costume distributing samples in the chilly weather. When I inquired about his well-being, he responded cheerfully, “Can’t complain.” This interaction served as a poignant reminder of the importance of gratitude, regardless of life’s circumstances.
In the realm of challenging work environments, I urge you to explore Amanda Tobin Ripley’s appeal to art museums. She advocates for the voluntary recognition of employees’ unions, urging an end to enforced elections, fear tactics, and divisive strategies among workers. Her article is essential reading not only for museum executives but for everyone involved in our industry.
Museum researcher and worker Amanda Tobin Ripley implores museum authorities to cease anti-union practices by acknowledging their employees’ unionization efforts. She writes, “Museum leaders frequently challenge worker eligibility as a favored tactic against the rising tide of unionization. From my own experiences in organizing and studying museum unions, I’ve noted a consistent pattern where museum leadership exploits the interval between the campaign announcement and election to undermine the union’s influence.”
