CHICAGO — Shedd Aquarium workers have filed a petition for union representation.
Organizers of the Shedd Workers United group, an affiliate of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Council 31, said Monday that they are overworked, understaffed, underpaid, and don’t have adequate sick time.
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Workers also claim that staff at the Shedd has retaliated against them for trying to unionize.
“We believe that our coworkers deserve better from our employer,” said Rachel Berey-Wingate with Shedd Workers United.
“What we want is for Shedd Aquarium, an institution focused on sustainability for marine life, to place an equal focus on making this a sustainable place to work.”
Workers say they already have a majority and ask Shedd CEO Bridget Coughlin to formally recognize their union without waiting for an election.
A Shedd spokesperson said Monday that the aquarium received and is reviewing the formal petition to form a union to “inform its next steps.”
Shedd has consistently emphasized the importance of choice and that every employee has the right for their perspective to be heard and accounted for. Our staff is the foundation of this institution, and we remain steadfast in fostering a culture of support, collaboration, and mutual respect as we move through this process together.
Kayley Ciocci, assistant director of public relations for Shedd Aquarium
Announced in April of this year, Shedd Workers United/AFSCME represents about 300 employees across departments, including animal care, learning and community, guest relations, facilities and others.