Birds of a Feather Flocked Together: CWA 1180-Bird Union Members Vote UNANIMOUSLY to Ratify Their First Union Contract!

On September 23rd, two years after they voted to join CWA Local 1180 and began bargaining to improve working conditions and ensure that all workers are treated fairly and equitably, workers at the National Audubon Society voted unanimously to ratify their first contract.

The contract covers 260 CWA-represented Audubon workers, and builds a foundation of union rights at Audubon, giving union workers just cause job protections, the organization’s first grievance procedure, and arbitration rights.

Among the biggest priorities for the workers was improving pay and improving parental leave, and the Bargaining Team - backed by the immense mobilization of the entire membership - delivered on both: the contract includes the first guaranteed across-the-board annual raise of 3% to all members as well as raise in each year of the contract, and a major increase in parental leave from two weeks of paid leave to twelve.

“After four hard-fought years, workers have secured a union contract for the first time in Audubon’s 119-year history,” said Shyamlee Patel, CWA 1180-Bird Union member. “We’ve won better wages, better benefits, and better working conditions for ourselves—and secured a better future for Audubon. This contract supports and empowers workers who are dedicated to protecting the birds and the planet.”

“This union contract marks a new beginning for Audubon – one where union members and management are able to collaborate instead of being at odds,” said Erin Hamilton, CWA 1180-Bird Union member. “Reaching this agreement means so much for so many dedicated working members across the organization. And I am so glad to have been part of this historic moment in Audubon's growth, and a future where we can all focus on what's really important, the BIRDS!”

“This agreement is the result of membership solidarity, patience, strength, and action,” said Robin Blair-Batte, Secretary-Treasurer of CWA Local 1180. “Our Bird Union members have shown that when we stand together, we win. Together, Local 1180 members fought for a contract that will raise standards at Audubon and includes significant gains for every part of our membership—and for those who come after.”