CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Unionized teachers at Second City’s improv theater have voted to authorize a strike.
The Association of International Comedy Educators says 94 percent of those who voted before Thanksgiving approved a potential strike. Teachers at Second City’s training center unionized under the International Federation of Teachers two years ago and are still working on their first contract.
“We want to be able to deliver a successful experience to our students – and we need the working conditions at The Second City to help facilitate that, not hinder it,” said Katie Wilson, a teacher at The Second City and AICE member.
The union claims wages are 50-70% less than those at comparable institutions and want pay increases as well as fair scheduling, intellectual property rights and recognition of the work they do outside the classroom.
“No one wants to strike, but no one wanted to be at the bargaining table for two years, either," teacher Ana Silva said.
The next session is slated for December 12. WBBM has reached out to Second City for comment.
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