Cal Academy Workers Union Spreads Awareness On Fight For Fair Wages On Academy Day

During the California Academy of Sciences' 172nd anniversary event, union members from CalAcademy Workers United highlighted their ongoing struggle for fair wages and job security. Established in July 2023, the union has been negotiating with management for nearly a year, achieving 27 tentative agreements but leaving core issues unresolved. Management cites an $8. 7 million budget shortfall as a barrier, while union members point out that many staff earn below San Francisco's living wage. Recent layoffs have particularly impacted the museum's educational departments, resulting in low morale among remaining staff.

Tensions intensified when the museum shut down its Youth Action for the Planet program shortly after youth participants showed support for the union. The program's coordinator was later allowed to resign, despite securing a $250,000 federal grant for its continuation. This incident drew criticism from local leaders, prompting the San Francisco Youth Commission to address the museum's actions. In response, former participants created the Youth Riot Network to continue advocating for climate justice and youth empowerment.