Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden workers are now in negotiations and ready to apply their expertise to make the Garden even better for tourists and the local community. From improved safety to better equipment, things will likely change for the better at the Garden now that the workers have a union.

“The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden workers have courageously shown what’s possible when workers unite and demand the dignity, respect, and voice they deserve,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin. “This victory shows that no matter the industry, workers have the right to fair treatment and the power to shape their future through collective bargaining. The IAM proudly welcomes them into our union family.”

LGBG workers patiently organized their coworkers and spread the word about their campaign on social media. Despite facing an expensive employer-backed antiunion campaign, they received steady support from community groups and elected leaders like Virginia’s 80th House District Delegate Destiny LeVere Bolling. Supporters visited the garden wearing union gear, their organization’s branding, or red to show solidarity with the workers’ campaign two days before voting. About 50 Richmonders from groups like Richmond Workers’ Assembly, Richmond DSA, and CBTU Central Virginia successfully showed workers they weren’t alone in wanting a union at the Garden.

“Bridget did an excellent job helping guide these mostly young workers through a tough campaign,” said IAM Organizing Director Mike Evans. “They’ve shown they can go toe-to-toe with the professional antiunion persuaders and come out on top.”

“I want to welcome LGBG workers into the IAM and congratulate them for their courage,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “I applaud IAM Organizing Lead Bridget Fitzgerald for her dedication and powerful advocacy on their behalf. This victory underscores the need for all workers to have a voice in the workplace, and the IAM looks forward to helping them achieve a first contract.”

LGBG Workers United joined IAM Local 10, the oldest, continuously running IAM Local. Local leaders are eager to incorporate their youthful energy and community connections into the Local’s regular meetings and organizing campaigns.