(NEW YORK CITY) - After a year of legal delays, Stagehands employed at Little Island have unanimously voted “Yes” to Unionize with International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local One.

Having opened in the Spring of 2021, Little Island is one of New York City’s newest parks and architectural wonders.

Built in the Hudson River upon a series of custom designed columns which were inspired by tulips, the 2.4-acre park contains a 687-seat amphitheater - as well as an outdoor performance space known as The Glade. 

The park has an annual Summer performance series hosting a wide variety of acts, including music, dance, theater and comedy - as well as regular daily performances throughout the park.

“The Crew at Little Island stood together in solidarity because they understand the benefits of Union representation.  They are an integral part of the performances at the park and deserve a living wage, as well as the benefits and protections in the workplace that Local One representation provides.  For the past (137) years, Local One has represented Stagehands on Broadway, live television, concerts, and live events in the New York City area, and the Crew of twenty-five at Little Island are continuing that tradition” Local One Trustee/Organizer John Lott said.

Stagehands at Little Island have now joined the thousands of Workers across America organizing for power on the job.

According to a recent Gallop Poll, 71% of Americans support Labor Unions and the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) reports Union representation petitions increased in 2022 by a historic 58%.

“We at Local One are proud to represent the Crew at Little Island and are ready to take their concerns and needs to the bargaining table and give them a voice where they haven’t had one before.  This is a great day for the Crew of Little Island, Local One and the Labor Movement in America” IATSE Local One President Mike Wekselblatt said.

IATSE represents more than 160,000 Technicians, Artisans and Craftspersons in the Entertainment Industry, including live events, motion picture and television production, broadcast and trade shows in the United States and Canada.

To Directly Access This Labor News Report, Go To: https://iatse.net/stagehands-at-nycs-little-island-unanimously-approve-union-with-iatse-local-one/?link_id=3&can_id=d28a0e75022b91d73fc95bc86b686390&source=email-union-matters-september-23-2022&email_referrer=email_1677133&email_subject=union-matters-september-30-2022