July 18, 2024, 11:47am
PEN America United has won a tentative, first bargaining agreement with PEN America management after a long, 21-month negotiation. The announcement also comes two weeks after the entire membership voted unanimously to authorize a strike if it became necessary.
We’re still waiting to see what the terms of the agreement will be, but the Union’s Executive Board released a statement celebrating the announcement:
We are elated that, after a long and arduous process, we have reached a tentative agreement on our first union contract with PEN America management. This is a huge step towards realizing a fair workplace at PEN America.
This milestone for our union could not have occurred had it not been for the unyielding support of our affiliate, United Auto Workers (UAW), and each of our unit members, who have time and time again shown up for PAU. Every member of PEN America United, including former staff, is an example of what dogged solidarity, tireless organizing, and yes, the liberating power of language, can do. We look forward to a ratification vote in the coming days. Solidarity forever.
PEN’s management responded with a gracious statement, as well:
PEN America is proud of the agreement reached with PEN America United. The outcome of this agreement is a testament to the hard work and engagement of everyone involved in this process. PEN America is invested in its talented staff, and we look forward to continuing to work together to advance our important mission.
Overall this seems like great news for the members of PEN America United, part of UAW Local 2320 and which obtained voluntary recognition in June 2022. The union has been seeking a contract that will address “low wages, scarce opportunities for growth and professional development, lack of transparency in organizational decisions, and ensuing rapid staff turnover, among others.”
Keep an eye out for further updates from PAU on X, née Twitter, or Instagram.