Historic victory, first climbing gyms in the city to unionize
[Editor’s Note: This press release was updated for a quote correction on April 8.]
Chicago, IL — [April 5] — Workers at two Movement climbing gyms in Chicago, celebrated a historic victory last night as they became the first in Chicago to unionize. The union locations are in Wrigleyville, which won 12-1, and Lincoln Park, which won 22-1.
Employees announced their plan to unionize industry giant Movement on February 23rd following a 5 months-long clandestine campaign over grievances standard to the climbing industry like low pay, poor benefits, favoritism, arbitrary scheduling and disciplinary practices. The campaign culminated in a two-day secret ballot election, resulting in an overwhelming victory.
Affiliated with Workers United, the bargaining unit consists of 47 routesetters, instructors, youth team coaches and front desk staff, nearly a third of which work at both locations. The union overcame electioneering that divided the gyms into two separate elections against the will of the workers. Tactics like this were familiar to organizers, as Chicago joins the growing number of Movement and other gyms nationwide organizing for better working conditions as seen in Philadelphia, New York and Crystal City.
In a city known for its union history, last night’s victory marks a significant turning point for the climbing community in Chicago, highlighting the transformative power of solidarity and collective action in advancing worker rights and building stronger, more equitable communities.
From the workers:
“Our decision to unionize at the Chicago Movement locations was sparked by our collective desire to cultivate a workplace that centers community and gives a voice to its employees by allowing us a seat at the table – through this first step at Movement, we hope to foster more equitable and inclusive practices within the indoor climbing industry at large.” ~ Jiyul
“My coworkers are some of the most hardworking, knowledgeable, and competent people I know, and get little recognition for it. I support a union because they deserve to have their rights and interests advocated for by the same people who know what goes into the work and see what they do for both the workplace and the wider community day in and day out.” ~ Sadie
“We all care deeply about this gym and its community, which are both best served by a workforce who is empowered and supported by those above them. Internal avenues have not yielded the transparency and consistency that we’ve asked for, so we’ve turned to unionization to bridge those gaps. I hope that, as a result of this campaign, we will build a workplace that better reflects Movement’s core values: passion, inclusion, partnership, integrity, and innovation.” ~ Em
“This gym has provided me not only a place to climb, but a community to belong to and meaningful friendships to cherish. The decision to unionize reflects the value of what we’ve built here and ensures it continues to thrive. With a seat at the table, we can make sure the needs of everyone who pours their heart into this gym – both members and staff – are heard and respected.” ~ Amanda
“The vibrant and inclusive Chicago climbing community deserves to be supported by front desk staff, instructors, coaches, and routesetters who are both treated and compensated fairly. My coworkers and I are thrilled with this historic win and proud to join a wave of workers organizing nationwide. I hope our campaign inspires climbing workers and all workers in historically underrepresented industries to exercise their right to organize and create the change they want to see in their industry.” ~ Rachel Martinez
“Winning their Union is always great for workers. However, this win is extra special as it is only the beginning of a movement which empowers workers throughout the climbing gym industry of Chicago. Workers United proudly stands in support of our newest members in the climbing gym industry. We look forward to continued growth within the industry across Chicago, the Midwest, and the Rockies. ” ~ Kathy Hanshew, Workers United, International Vice President. Chicago and Midwest Regional Joint Board of Workers United, President
Photos and Interviews are available on request.
CBJ press releases are written by the sponsor and do not represent the views of the Climbing Business Journal editorial team.
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CBJ press releases are written by the sponsor and do not represent the views of the Climbing Business Journal editorial team.
