LACMA Employees Unite for Fair Compensation in Upcoming Unionization Effort

LACMA Employees Seek Unionization: A Bold Step Towards Fair Compensation

In a significant move reflecting ongoing labor struggles nationwide, employees at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) have announced their intention to form a union, named LACMA United, in association with AFSCME Cultural Workers United District Council 36. This initiative comes as the museum gears up for the highly anticipated opening of its new David Geffen Galleries in April 2026, a $720 million project that signifies a transformative period for the institution.

The Call for Change: A Collective Voice

The open letter issued by LACMA United highlights pressing issues that have compelled over 300 museum employees—including curators, educators, and guest relations associates—to unite under a common cause. Citing inadequate compensation that has failed to keep pace with the rising cost of living in one of the world’s most expensive cities, the employees are advocating for fair wages, expanded benefits, and increased institutional transparency.

As the museum prepares for its grand unveiling, employees find themselves grappling with workload challenges. Many are reportedly taking on expanded responsibilities due to staff shortages amid high turnover, which exacerbates their struggles amidst the costs of living, making their voices for unionization more urgent and necessary.

The Current Labor Landscape in Museums

The move to unionize at LACMA aligns with broader trends observed within cultural institutions across the nation. Recently released data from “2025 Report on Workplace Equity and Organizational Culture in US Art Museums,” published by Museums Moving Forward, reveals concerning employment conditions that resonate with the experiences of LACMA employees. The report indicates that nearly 50% of museum workers have sought other job opportunities, driven primarily by low pay and lack of growth prospects.

Moreover, the report sheds light on the stark realities faced by museum staff; it notes that over a quarter of full-time workers fail to earn a living wage, a statistic that rises to 69% for entry-level positions. These figures underscore the vital need for systemic change across all art institutions, and LACMA United aims to be a catalyst for that change.

Context Matters: The Significance of LACMA's Evolution

The unionization effort is unfolding in tandem with LACMA's own evolution. The museum’s plans to revamp and expand its footprint with the new galleries underline its commitment to showcasing art while recognizing its obligation to the very people who facilitate this mission. As LACMA embraces its role within Los Angeles's vibrant cultural landscape, it faces a poignant question: can it truly lead in art without first committing to equitable practices for its workers?

With this call for action, LACMA United is not only advocating for fair treatment for its workforce but also inspiring other institutions to reconsider their labor policies and treatment of employees. As the museum confronts both internal and external demands, the establishment of this union could be pivotal for its future.

A Community Call to Action

In the spirit of solidifying this movement, LACMA United has requested voluntary recognition from the museum’s executives and board of trustees by November 5. As their voices echo through LACMA’s halls, they remind us of the interconnectedness between the art world and its labor force—a narrative that is as vibrant and dynamic as the collections they curate.

For those who value fair treatment and enhanced working conditions in the arts, showing support for such initiatives could potentially redefine the landscape of employment in cultural institutions. You are encouraged to engage in the conversation and stand with the LACMA staff as they strive for a more equitable work environment.