The longest strike by Philadelphia's workers in almost 40 years has come to a close, thanks to a new labor agreement reached between the city's largest public sector union and Mayor Cherelle Parker. The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees District Council 33, representing around 9,000 employees, including 1,000 sanitation workers, announced the end of the eight-day strike early Wednesday morning on social media, stating, "The Strike is Over!"
This strike, initiated on July 1, severely impacted city services, leading to trash piled high on the streets and forcing libraries to close their doors. The foul smell from accumulating garbage caught the attention of many, prompting the city to employ private contractors and nonunion staff—a move that was met with criticism.
Under the three-year agreement, workers will see a pay increase of 14% during Mayor Parker's term. However, the deal is still pending ratification from union members. The workers had been advocating for a long-term contract following the expiration of a one-year extension at the start of the month, with discussions revealing a division among union members regarding proposed wage increases, which many felt didn’t match inflation rates.
This momentous event marks a significant turning point for Philadelphia, illustrating the challenges urban workers face amidst today's economic climate.
This strike, initiated on July 1, severely impacted city services, leading to trash piled high on the streets and forcing libraries to close their doors. The foul smell from accumulating garbage caught the attention of many, prompting the city to employ private contractors and nonunion staff—a move that was met with criticism.
Under the three-year agreement, workers will see a pay increase of 14% during Mayor Parker's term. However, the deal is still pending ratification from union members. The workers had been advocating for a long-term contract following the expiration of a one-year extension at the start of the month, with discussions revealing a division among union members regarding proposed wage increases, which many felt didn’t match inflation rates.
This momentous event marks a significant turning point for Philadelphia, illustrating the challenges urban workers face amidst today's economic climate.
