ACLU of Virginia United ratifies first contract

After two and a half years of negotiations, ACLU Virginia United staffers have achieved a landmark first contract, securing major gains in pay, benefits, equity, and workplace protections. The union is represented by the Washington-Baltimore News Guild Local 32035 and they are the 10th ACLU affiliate to unionize, joining ACLU chapters in West Virginia and North Carolina in being represented by WBNG. Other ACLU affiliates in KansasMissouri, and Minnesota, are also part of The NewsGuild-CWA.

The contract covers employees across ACLU Virginia and was ratified with unanimous support.

Highlights of the contract include:

Strengthened Protections and Benefits

  • Immediate base pay increases for the lowest-paid workers
  • Robust grievance and arbitration procedures for dispute resolution
  • Comprehensive insurance coverage for all employees
  • $150 monthly stipend for student loans, improving financial accessibility for all

Commitment to Anti-Racism, Equity, and Inclusion

  • Specific language supporting anti-racism, equity, and inclusion initiatives
  • A dedicated Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging (EDIB) committee with stipends for members to drive meaningful organizational progress

Work-Life Balance and Flexibility

  • “Summer Fridays” allowing employees to finish at 1 p.m. every Friday in July and August
  • Clear remote work provisions, creating flexibility for staff to balance personal and professional commitments
  • One month paid sabbatical after five years of employment

Wyatt Rolla from the bargaining committee said, “The base pay increase is a major win, alongside annual step-ups that reduce pay disparities and uplift the lowest-paid staff. The ACLU-VA’s mission is centered on justice, and this contract brings us closer to economic justice for all. I’m proud of our unity and commitment to seeing this process through to a 100% unanimous ratification.”

Molly Golski, another committee member, expressed, “To me, this union means solidarity, understanding, and engaging community. The student loan stipend and Summer Fridays are significant benefits that make working at ACLU-VA more accessible and allow all of us space to care for ourselves. This contract sets us up for continued success together.”

Follow the ACLU of Virginia United on Twitter @ACLUVA_United.