SEATTLE, Wash. — The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) and its security guard union have reached an agreement.
The news follows a 12-day strike and more than two years of negotiations.
The two parties made the announcement in a joint release Wednesday.
“Despite the many challenges we have faced since bargaining commenced over 28 months ago, the Union remained steadfast in its commitment to securing a first contract that our members would be proud of,” a statement from the Visitor Service Officers union reads.
According to the news release, the agreement will restore pre-pandemic retirement plans and includes a strong union security clause and an alternative for those who don’t wish to participate. The union says it was also able to secure several wage and benefit improvements that went ‘far beyond what SAM leadership initially offered.’
“I am grateful to the bargaining teams from SAM and the VSO Union who committed their time, energy and passion to reach a contract we can all be proud of,” said Scott Stulen, SAM’s Director and CEO in the joint news release. “This contract addresses the unique working conditions of VSOs and the important services they provide, while maintaining our commitment to equity across the staff. It’s also a critical step so we can continue our focus on making SAM a welcoming, inclusive and inspiring place for all our employees and guests. We’re excited to welcome back our colleagues and move forward together.”
According to the Seattle Art Museum, the contract has been ratified by the VSO Union and will go into effect on the next pay period.
The Seattle Times is reporting that the contract includes a wage increase from $21.68 to $23.25 per hour and lead and dispatch employees will earn $25 and $27 per hour. Union members will also reportedly receive a 4% wage increase at the start of 2025 followed by additional 4% increases in 2026 and 2027.