Service & Solidarity Spotlight: IRC Workers Ratify First Contract Covering Hundreds of Staff Nationwide

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU) members at 13 International Rescue Committee (IRC) offices around the country ratified their first collective bargaining agreement this week.

This is a powerful win for the nearly 700 member-strong IRC Workers Unite (IRCWU) bargaining unit who have dedicated their careers to helping vulnerable people across the globe access health care, education and economic opportunities.

“Winning our contract was an incredibly emotional experience,” said Jodi Camino, a school success caseworker in Atlanta. “Experiencing that win in community really reminded me that in addition to the contract articles that will make a really concrete difference in my financial security, working conditions and quality of life, our biggest win is we now have a voice, community and collective power.”

“Through these contract wins, IRC workers are now on the path to earning what they deserve for their invaluable service to refugees, those living through war and all who believe in universal human dignity. This win is a testament to the organizing prowess and bargaining chops of the OPEIU members at IRC, and the wide-ranging gains unions can secure for nonprofit workers,” said Tyler Turner, OPEIU president.