Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Southern California Aquarium Workers Vote to Join AFSCME, Prepare to Negotiate Their First Contract

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.

The workers who keep Southern California’s largest aquarium running formed Aquarium of the Pacific Workers United in Long Beach and are now part of AFSCME District Council 36.

“With our vote, the workers of Aquarium of the Pacific Workers United finally have a seat at the table,” said Angie Pulmano, a member of the organizing committee. “I am beyond proud of my team. I’m looking forward to a future filled with empathy for one another and respect for the workers that make this place run.” 

The new union represents some 108 workers, including environmentalists, educators, guest services associates and more. They will now negotiate their first contract and are focused on establishing avenues for professional development, limiting the use of generative artificial intelligence, and ensuring that employees have livable wages.  

“Better work comes from workers who are taken care of and heard,” said Lurdez Puga, an education specialist at the aquarium. “I love the work I do and want to be able to continue to do it in a work environment that supports the health and safety of me and my colleagues.”