Missouri’s First Domestic Violence Shelter Unionization Happens in Kansas City

Rose Brooks Center Unionizes

In a historic move, employees at the Rose Brooks Center in Kansas City, a prominent domestic violence shelter, have voted to become part of Laborers Local 955, marking the first instance of unionization within the domestic violence shelter sector in the state. More than two-thirds of the eligible staff at the shelter participated in the vote, with a convincing majority in favor of the union. Unionization includes staffers across community programs, patient care, housing, and economic services.

A Response to Work Conditions

The initiative for unionization was born out of what employees felt was a lack of respect from management towards their insight on improving operations at the shelter. Given that workers actively engage with survivors of domestic violence, ensuring their safety and comfort, employees felt their experiences and suggestions were valuable in optimizing shelter operations.

Supporters of the union have highlighted that this move can aid in stabilizing an industry known for high levels of burnout and turnover. They hope it sets a precedent that encourages other non-profit workers to unionize and safeguard their interests.

Leadership’s Response to Unionization Efforts

Despite the overwhelming support for the move among staff, there have been allegations of pushback from the shelter’s leadership. The management reportedly hired a law firm specializing in union avoidance campaigns, leading to confusion and further determination amongst staff. Scott Mason, the director of marketing at Rose Brooks, voiced his commitment to respecting the outcome of the vote, acknowledging the substantial support it received from employees.

Accusations and Denials

Union organizers have accused the shelter’s leadership of spreading misinformation, claiming they made highly damaging and false accusations against employees. They deny any allegations of breaching client confidentiality. The union has since filed a charge against Rose Brooks with the National Labor Relations Board, accusing leadership of coercive rules and surveillance.

Support from Local Legislators and Councilmembers

The movement garnered support from a host of local legislators and labor leaders, adding credibility to their cause. Additionally, the day before the election, 10 of the 12 Kansas City Councilmembers sent a letter of support to the unionizing workers, applauding their efforts in ensuring the continued and improved service of the shelter.

Setting a Precedent

Rose Brooks, known for innovation and trend-setting developments, such as being one of the country’s first shelters to allow victims to bring their pets, aims to set a precedent with this unionization effort. Inspired employees believe they can highlight the potential for empowerment unionization brings, hoping to instigate similar movements in non-profit sectors across the country.