Dozens of of Brookfield Zoo Chicago union workers wanted their voices to be heard as they stood outside the main entrance with pickets in hand Monday morning on the first day of an authorized strike after prior contract negotiations were unsuccessful.
Several dozen grounds crew members and union representatives of the zoo, 3300 Golf Rd. in Brookfield were among those striking, with over 100 participants expected by the end of the day.
Grasping a sign reading “We’re not lion about being understaffed” was Carrie Sapienza, a senior groundskeeper and equipment operator who has worked at the zoo for over three decades and wants her voice heard.
“We have staff that worked here 25, 35, 45 years. We’re dedicated to these animals,” said Sapienza, who is also the chief union steward for local 727. “This is not a job, it’s a career. We’ve invested our lives into this place. It’s a second home and we want to be recognized for that.”In a released statement Monday morning, zoo officials said they were “disappointed but anticipated” the strike and have plans in place to ensure continued operations.
“While the Zoo continued bargaining in good faith as recently as Friday, we are disappointed that an agreement was not reached,” zoo officials said. “A strike is neither necessary nor inevitable, and our focus remains on reaching a fair and responsible contract—one that supports our employees while protecting the Zoo’s long-term sustainability and mission.”
The most notable areas union employees are looking to address include under staffing, healthcare and wages that match increased living costs.
Union leadership say the zoo hasn’t been negotiating in good faith and that officials “came back to the table with no movement” after the latest round of stalled negotiations Friday.
“We want the zoo to come to the table and bargain in good faith, to stop violating the law and treat these members with the dignity and respect they deserve,” said Caleen Carter-Patton, president and business manager of Teamsters Local 727.
Carter-Patton urged the public to stay away from the zoo as the strike progresses. She noted that while operations at the zoo will continue, guests won’t get the same atmosphere the zoo is known for.
“You’re not going to get that world class experience people are used to,” Carter-Patton said.
Several dozen Brookfield Zoo Chicago grounds crew members and union representatives were among those striking, with over 100 participants expected by the end of the day.
Several dozen Brookfield Zoo Chicago grounds crew members and union representatives were among those striking, with over 100 participants expected by the end of the day.
