For more than 10 years, the Staten Island Ferry workers have been fighting for a new contract with the New York City Department of Transportation. Workers’ wages and benefits have not changed since 2010, when their last contract expired. Tell New York City Mayor Eric Adams that this is unacceptable.
Stagnant wages and benefits have created high turnover. With fewer workers available to operate the ferries, there has been decreased and unreliable ferry service for the 20 million passengers who use the ferry each year.
City officials have used the pandemic as a scapegoat and blame workers for the service issues instead of taking responsibility for their own mismanagement. Last week, city officials escalated from blaming the pandemic to accusing workers of an illegal work action that they called a “sick out.”
Ferry workers are exhausted from working 12-hour shifts over six to seven consecutive days. They are working overtime to compensate for management’s inaction.
While ferry management has failed New Yorkers, the workers have not.
The Staten Island Ferry workers have been on the front lines during the pandemic, and they deserve a new contract. They have waited more than 10 years. They should not have to wait one day longer.
We’re asking Mayor Adams and his administration to provide a good contract for these workers right now. A new contract is the only way the city will be able to retain the Staten Island Ferry workers and hire new ones to ensure the future of the Staten Island Ferry.
Sign our petition to support the Staten Island Ferry workers!
In Solidarity,
Team AFL-CIO