Working people across the United States regularly step 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.
Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 122 members who work for Encore Global won a historic contract that includes wage increases of up to 28% in the first year.
Workers secured this victory after several months of coordinated collective action. Encore is majority-owned by Blackstone—the world’s largest private equity firm. This contract serves as a reminder that when workers stand together, we have the power to take on the wealthiest bosses and win. The agreement covers almost 200 in-house audiovisual technicians and riggers across 24 venues in San Diego County. Some highlights of the new contract include an average wage increase of up to 28% in the first year, premiums for hazardous working conditions, a reduced evaluation period to allow more opportunities for merit increases, a ratification bonus, and a strengthened arbitration process to protect workers’ rights and fortify the agreement.
“This agreement reflects the strength and unity of Local 122 and our commitment to raising standards across the industry,” said Robert Morales, IATSE Local 122 business representative.