Sunrise and CWA Celebrate Visionary Collective Bargaining Agreement

Today, Sunrise Movement and the Communications Workers of America Union (CWA) reached a visionary, one-of-its-kind collective bargaining agreement. In response, Sunrise Movement and the CWA put out the following joint statement:

"As workers across the country are realizing their power and forming unions, Sunrise Movement management and staff are proud to have reached an innovative and rigorous bargaining agreement with the CWA. We are thankful for all of the workers and bargaining members whose vision and drive in these last nine months have made this a reality. Strong unions are a core pillar of the Green New Deal. Our commitment to the labor movement and the dignity of all workers is crucial in our fight. We all benefit from a strong, pro-worker contract.

"We are especially proud that this contract is one of the most progressive agreements reached by CWA. In particular, our revolutionary non-discrimination article, voluntary recognition and neutrality details, and our time off and leave provisions are some of the first of their kind. This contract treats each worker with the utmost respect as human beings, putting care and community for one another first in the workplace. We hope this sets an example for other organizations and businesses across the country.

"Sunrise and the CWA will continue working together during the life of the contract to make Sunrise a dignified and meaningful place to work."

Varshini Prakash, Executive Director of Sunrise Movement:
"I am so damn proud of this visionary collective bargaining agreement that gives our staff dignified and healthy working conditions. Our people deserve to get paid well, get enough vacation and rest, and have support if they choose to have a family or unexpectedly get sick. I have nothing but respect for our workers and the good team at CWA and the partnership we've built over the last year. Onward to combat the existential crisis of our time, while standing up for workers and good jobs everywhere."

CWA Local 1180 President Gloria Middleton:
"It is a breath of fresh air to negotiate a contract for our members with a management team that understands the value of its employees and knows that an unbalanced work-life schedule will lead to their demise. When management and unions can find a way of working together for the best interests of all parties involved, then everyone comes out a winner. This Sunrise Movement contract now will hopefully set an example for other non-profits down the road."