The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Missouri and the United Media Guild have agreed to a new five-year contract, which includes an immediate pay raise, annual yearly raises and broader health care coverage for members’ dependents.
The agreement marks the first union contract for ACLU of Missouri employees, who formed a union with the United Media Guild that was voluntarily recognized by the ACLU of Missouri on March 8, 2021.
Reva Wood, a member of the ACLU of Missouri’s development team who serves as the unit chair, said the agreement ensures that the ACLU team rises together, which is a direct reflection of the work the ACLU does in Missouri.
“Our new agreement brings forth benefits that will have an immediate impact for members and their families,” she said. “We are thankful that management voluntarily came to negotiations in good faith and with the willingness to get this done. The ACLU of Missouri Bargaining Unit is proud to be represented by the United Media Guild.”
ACLU of Missouri Executive Director Luz María Henríquez agreed and said, “Our organization approached the process as an opportunity to strengthen our affiliate. Together with staff we defined shared interests, enhanced organizational systems and structures and fortified relationships. We believe the agreement upholds our commitment to fairness and equity for all staff while putting the organization on a sustainable path to continue our work.”
Highlights of the five-year contract agreed to by the ACLU of Missouri Bargaining Unit and the ACLU of Missouri include:
- Immediate increase in base salary for all employees.
- Annual step-up increase in pay for the term of the contract.
- Guaranteed paid time off for 10 holidays, and an additional floating paid holiday of the employee’s choice and sick leave.
- Greater insurance coverage for employees and dependents, including continuing to pay the full premium for employees while now covering 50 percent of premiums for their families.
- Provisions for separation pay.
- Renewed commitment to equity, inclusion, and non-discrimination.
- Three days of remote work per week.
- Increased allowance for use of personal mobile devices.
- Formation of a Labor-management committee to collaboratively address and solve issues.
“The United Media Guild is proud to partner with the ACLU of Missouri as both organizations have a history of standing up for the rights of workers,” said Shannon Duffy, United Media Guild business representative. “We believe this five-year collective bargaining agreement – with guaranteed raises in every year – is fair and equitable, and we look forward to working together in the future.”
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