Workers at Brooklyn Museum get lifeline

Following demonstrations by hundreds of union supporters, political pressure from elected officials, and multiple rounds of tense negotiations, District Council 37 (DC 37), Local 1502 and the Brooklyn Museum have reached an agreement that avoids layoffs of nearly 50 workers.

DC 37 is New York City’s largest public employee union, with 150,000 members and 89,000 retirees.

It said the agreement allows for a voluntary separation package or retirement with an additional incentive.

DC 37 said the voluntary separation package includes three weeks’ pay for every year of service, a reference letter from management to assist in finding new employment, and COBRA health insurance paid for by the museum for up to four months.

“We secured an agreement that is fair and results in no layoffs for our members,” said Henry Garrido, executive director of District Council 37. “The outcome of these negotiations is a testament to the power of union representation— when we fight together, we win.

“We will continue pushing for sustainable funding for the city’s cultural institutions,” he added.

Garrido said the terms of the agreement also apply to workers represented by UAW Local 2110.