Teamsters Celebrate New Union Members at Ascend Cannabis in Illinois

In a significant victory for labor rights, workers at Ascend Cannabis in Barry, Illinois, have opted to join the Teamsters union, expanding the union's membership by an impressive 282 employees. This group of workers is involved in various operations such as cultivation, extraction, packaging, and quality assurance, joining the growing movement of cannabis workers fighting for better labor conditions across the nation.

The organizing effort, led by Teamsters Local 916, follows previous successful initiatives within the same company that saw drivers and manufacturing workers unionize. As the third wave of employees at Ascend to gain representation, this new unionization effort marks a pivotal moment in establishing strong collective bargaining power for all employees involved in the cannabis production chain.

JP Fyans, President of Local 916, hailed this accomplishment as a manifestation of worker solidarity. He emphasized the importance of collective action in empowering employees to reform their work environments. “This victory is proof that when workers stand together, they have the power to transform their workplaces,” Fyans stated, indicating that new members will not only gain a voice but a legitimate seat at the negotiation table for better contracts essential for their livelihoods.

In a jubilant reflection of the victory, Cory Hill, a cultivation worker at Ascend, expressed pride in the collective struggle. Hill highlighted that agricultural workers often face obstacles that would deter lesser groups, yet through unity, they have been able to carve out a space for their voices to be heard. “Now we’ll be recognized for our countless hours of hard work. Our voices will be not only heard but listened to,” Hill remarked, showcasing the emotional weight of this achievement.

This trend toward unionization in the cannabis sector reflects a national movement among laborers seeking better conditions. With the cannabis industry blossoming and evolving, Teamsters Local 916 is determined to continue advocating for workers' rights within this emerging landscape. Jesse Case, Director of the Teamsters Food Processing Division, reiterated their commitment to pushing this momentum forward: “Cannabis workers across the country are realizing that the Teamsters are the best choice for strong contracts and a real voice in the workplace.”

The momentum of Teamsters Local 916, which now represents over 4,000 workers across Illinois, signals a shift in how cannabis employees approach their work environments. The broader implications of successful unionization efforts will likely serve as a blueprint for union strategies in similar industries. By actively engaging in the formation of labor unions, more workers are likely to demand representation, which could foster improved labor standards and practices throughout the cannabis market.

As this movement continues to grow, the emphasis on fair pay, safe working conditions, and respect within the workplace is becoming increasingly clear. As workers galvanize under the Teamsters' banner to advocate for their rights, the emerging cannabis industry is viewed not just as a commercial sector, but as a crucial battleground for labor rights and social justice.

For further information on Teamsters Local 916 and their campaigns, you can visit teamsters916.org. Join the conversation about the evolution of worker rights in emerging industries and what it means for the future of labor in America.