September 13, 2024, Washington, D.C. – EarthRights International’s management team and the EarthRights United staff union, which represents a group of workers in the organization’s Washington, D.C. office, have reached a collective bargaining agreement.
“Today we celebrate our first union contract, which represents a commitment to the growth of this organization and wellbeing of all staff. We stand on the shoulders of many who have labored for a better world, and acknowledge with gratitude those that carved the path we walked down, including former staff members, SEIU, labor leaders, and union siblings,” said Audrey Schreiber, a representative of EarthRights United.
The three-year collective bargaining agreement underscores EarthRights’ commitment to protecting the rights of employees, promoting fair work practices, ensuring the economic security of employees, and advancing social justice. The agreement covers key aspects of employment, including the determination of salaries and benefits, allocation of resources, DEI, and more.
“EarthRights International’s commitment to protecting and respecting rights, and ensuring the enjoyment of freedoms, extends not only to our clients and partner communities but also to our staff,” said EarthRights Executive Director Bobbie Sta. Maria. “This agreement is ultimately about improving the lives of our staff, their families, and loved ones, and fulfilling our mission in a workplace that values the dignity and solidarity of workers. We are proud of the wins we have defined collectively through the bargaining process and will apply these equitably across our offices outside the US, while considering local laws and practices.”
EarthRights United is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 500 and includes lawyers, communications specialists, campaigners, and development and global operations staff based in the United States.
EarthRights has offices in the United States and in the Amazon and Mekong regions.
Media contacts:
For press inquiries, interviews, or more information, please contact:
Daniela Colaiacovo, EarthRights International: (703) 975-0608, daniela.colaiacovo@earthrights.org
Audrey Schreiber, EarthRights International and EarthRights United: earthrightsunited@gmail.com
