Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The 178 crew members of the Atlantic Theater Company voted to join the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), becoming the first group to form a union with IATSE at a major nonprofit theater off-Broadway. The workers include crew members in carpentry, electrics, scenic, props, audio, video, hair and makeup, and wardrobe.
“This is a monumental step forward towards improving pay, conditions, and stability for freelance theatre workers in New York City and across the country,” said Stage Carpenter Michael Stevens. “I’m immensely grateful to my fellow workers for supporting the effort to unionize the Atlantic, as well as to the organizing committee for our shared, tireless commitment to this campaign. We look forward to bargaining for the benefits—such as healthcare—that we all deserve!”