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.
Production workers at The Grand Opera House in Wilmington, Delaware, have voted to form a union with Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 8.
The bargaining unit at the historic 1,208-seat venue includes stagehands, wardrobe crew, audio and video technicians, electricians and other key roles. The theater hosts a variety of world-class performances and is the home of the Delaware Symphony Orchestra, OperaDelaware and First State Ballet Theatre. The production crew filed for a National Labor Relations Board election after management declined to do right by them and voluntarily recognize their union.
“Union representation opens doors for us all and means more stability in our jobs, a chance to expand our skills, and leverage in our workplace,” said John Mones, head carpenter at The Grand. “I’m looking forward to more opportunities, meeting new people in our industry, and a better quality of life.”
“Winning a union at The Grand Opera House is a major step forward, not just for the workers, but for the entire Wilmington arts community,” said IATSE International Representative Dan Little. “Through solidarity, these workers have secured a stronger voice on the job, greater economic security, and a path toward lasting prosperity.”