#United States #San Diego #San Diego Zoo #Wildlife Care #Teamsters Local 481

San Diego Zoo Registrars Unite with Teamsters Local 481

In a significant move for labor representation, registrars at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA) have officially joined Teamsters Local 481. This vote marks the second group within the organization to align with the union this year, reflecting a growing wave of solidarity among workers in the zoo community.

Teamsters Local 481 currently represents around 1,800 employees at SDZWA, encompassing a wide range of positions from retail staff and concessions to specialists in wildlife care and horticulture. Earlier this year, the union also welcomed veterinary technicians into its ranks, showcasing a collective push for better working conditions.

Jeremy Hodges, a registrar at SDZWA, expressed his enthusiasm for joining the union, stating, "We joined the Teamsters because we've seen firsthand the benefits that union representation brings to other employees at SDZWA. As registrars, we're proud of the specialized work we do, and we want to make sure our compensation, benefits, and voice in the workplace reflect the value of that work."

The registrars hold critical responsibilities within the zoo, managing record-keeping systems for the wildlife collection, ensuring regulatory compliance, and tracking animal transactions. Their decision to unionize came after discussions with Teamsters stewards regarding the upcoming 2025 contract campaign, which garnered significant attention from both the San Diego public and nonunion zoo employees.

Erin Borgardt, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 481, expressed her pride in the new members: "We're proud to welcome the registrars to the Teamsters. The momentum is building at SDZWA as more workers recognize the power of standing together. We look forward to welcoming more workers into our union and advocating for a strong contract."

With approximately 4,000 members across various sectors in the San Diego area, including building supply, automotive, UPS, and at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, Teamsters Local 481 continues to gain ground. The union's growth underscores the importance of collective bargaining in achieving fair labor practices and improving employees’ conditions in diverse working environments.

This recent development at the San Diego Zoo highlights the ongoing trend of labor organization in the face of workplace challenges, signaling to other employees that collective strength can lead to meaningful change.

For employees contemplating union representation, the situation at SDZWA serves as a powerful reminder of the positive impacts that can arise from standing together. The future looks promising for those advocating for better working conditions, benefits, and rights throughout the zoo and beyond.

For more information on Teamsters Local 481 and their efforts, visit teamsters481.org.