The IAM Midwest Territory achieved a resounding victory in an organizing drive, successfully bringing 20 Tree House Humane Society workers into the union fold. This organization is renowned for rehoming nearly 1,000 cats every year.
The new IAM members shoulder many responsibilities, including animal care, scheduling, and assisting in surgical procedures. They proudly call themselves “The Tree House Workers Union.”
“We extend our warmest welcome to our newest Machinists at Tree House Humane Society,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Steve Galloway. “They are seeking justice and dignity in their workplace. These workers, much like their counterparts in emerging nontraditional professions, are eager to join the IAM.”
This hard-fought victory was far from easy, as the employer employed a union buster from day one.
Critical concerns for the workers centered around their lower than industry standard wages, working conditions and constant unilateral change of Health benefits with little to no warning forcing some employees that need long term care to find a new Doctor. The union buster’s fees and expenses in just ten days exceeded the annual salaries of most of these dedicated workers.
“This achievement resulted from a collective effort, ” said IAM Midwest Territory Associate Organizer Brian Ilic. “I greatly appreciate the assistance of IAM Midwest Territory Grand Lodge Representative and Organizing Lead Geny Ulloa, as well as IAM Midwest Territory Grand Lodge Representatives Chris Tucker and Bill LePinske for their invaluable contributions.”
The group will be proud members of IAM Local 48, District 8, in Chicago.
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