Mothers Out Front and NPEU Celebrate First Collective Bargaining Agreement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 11, 2024

CONTACT: Heather Cushman, hcushman@npeu.org; Kia Smith, kia.smith@mothersoutfront.org

Washington D.C. — Mothers Out Front and their staff, united through the Nonprofit Professional Employees Union (NPEU), Local 70 of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), proudly announce the ratification of their inaugural collective bargaining agreement, solidifying their commitment to fostering a supportive and equitable workplace.

The agreement, negotiated collaboratively between Mothers Out Front and NPEU, reflects a shared dedication to recognizing the value of employees and creating a positive work environment.

“The Mothers Out Front leadership team is committed to a just and equitable work environment where all of our employees feel valued, supported and respected,” said Beth Shipp, Executive Director of Mothers Out Front. “When we invest in our staff, we create a sense of community and belonging that lays an unshakable foundation to support our staff as they work with our member moms to ensure a livable climate for all children.”

Highlights of the three-year agreement include significant advancements in pay and compensation, including annual $2,000 pay increases, as well as job security measures, enhanced benefits, and a strengthened commitment to transparency and collaboration.

"This agreement sets a standard for fair and just workplace practices – creating an environment where everyone can thrive,” said Shira Rascoe, a member of the union bargaining committee. “When staff feel supported, they can be more effective in their work and Mothers Out Front can be even more successful as an organization working towards a sustainable and just future for all children. I’m excited to see what else we can accomplish by working together,” added Jamie Valdez, who also served on the union bargaining committee.

Amy Chin Lai, NPEU President, emphasized, "Our partnership with Mothers Out Front has produced an agreement that prioritizes the well-being of the staff. We are excited about the positive impact this contract will have on job security, compensation, and the overall workplace experience for our union members as they work to mobilize thousands in communities across the country."

Mothers Out Front and NPEU look forward to implementing these progressive measures, setting an example for other organizations in prioritizing the well-being and job satisfaction of their employees. This agreement marks a significant step towards creating a workplace that aligns with the values of both Mothers Out Front and the NPEU.

About Nonprofit Professional Employees Union:

The Nonprofit Professional Employees Union (NPEU), a local of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers, represents employees at over fifty nonprofit organizations, including Food and Water Watch, the Brookings Institution, and Action Squared. With over a thousand members, NPEU gives nonprofit workers a voice to strengthen their workplaces and continue to do work that makes a difference in people’s lives.

About Mothers Out Front:
Mothers Out Front is a member-led climate justice organization. We are mothers, sisters, aunts, grandmothers and other caregivers coming together to make climate justice a priority issue that our decision-makers can no longer ignore. We are building a powerful grassroots movement to ensure a swift, complete and just transition away from fossil fuels and toward a clean and renewable energy future where our children and families can thrive.

Heather Cushman