Macy's Bargaining update and Next Steps

Our Union Bargaining Team: Azia Domingo, Curtisy Bryant, Emily Hunter, Liisa Luick, Nicole Hardin.

Our Union Bargaining Team met with Management again on August 24 and 25.

We were cautiously optimistic about these dates because it was the first time we met in-person since mid-July. We’ve found that in-person negotiations have been more fruitful, and we were anticipating this trend to continue.

We couldn’t have been more wrong. Macy’s started by passing a proposal that regressed to the terms of our June 27 bargaining date, throwing away the progress we had made through supposals over the past two months. This sudden reversal was a significant setback and suggested the Employer's readiness for a contentious round of negotiations.

The Employer’s latest proposal included:

GENERAL WAGE INCREASE
Years of Service 1-14: Year 1: 40¢, Year 2: 40¢, Year 3: 40¢
Years of Service 15+: Year 1: 50¢, Year 2: 40¢, Year 3: 40¢
$17 Minimum Wage (except Southcenter)

• Elimination of all wage scales, limiting the career growth of members,

• Elimination of most our holiday pay language, replacing it with the employer’s non-union holiday policy,

• REJECTED Union proposal to create a master safety committee,

• REJECTED Union proposal that employees will not be disciplined when calling mall security or the police,

• REJECTED Union proposal for better vacation accruals,

• REJECTED Union proposal for better deficit wipe-offs,

• REJECTED Union proposal for a more affordable healthcare option.

In response, our Bargaining Team mirrored this approach, dropping all the movement made during the supposal process just as the Employer had. They left us with no choice since we could not lock in our progress when they were unwilling to do the same.

We are disappointed with Macy’s actions, yet, our disappointment only strengthens our resolve to take whatever action is necessary to win a fair contract. That being said, our Bargaining Team has called for a second round of informational pickets.

September will become a month of action, as informational pickets are again set for Bellingham, Alderwood, and Southcenter. This time, they will span three consecutive Fridays. Our last round of pickets saw the strong showing of UFCW 3000 members and the community, but now it's time to demonstrate that our solidarity has grown even stronger. As we gear up for a potential labor dispute over the holidays, Macy’s will see that our unity remains unshakeable.

Contract Action Team Meetings:

Southcenter: Tuesday September 5, 12PM-1PM
Southcenter Mall Food Court 2800 Southcenter Mall, Seattle, WA 98188)

Alderwood: Tuesday September 5, 3PM-4PM
Elemental Pizza 3000 184th St SW #948, Lynnwood, WA 98037)

Bellingham: Thursday September 7, 1PM-2PM
Bellis Fair Mall Food Court One Bellis Fair Pkwy, Bellingham, WA 98226)

In addition to RSVP’ing to an informational picket, our Bargaining Team asks that you attend our next Contract Action Team Meetings to learn more about our next steps. During these meetings we will focus on planning for a possible strike over the holidays, including a Q&A session with the UFCW 3000 Negotiations Director.

Macy’s Informational Pickets Round 2 RSVP: bit.ly/macys-info-picket-23

Friday September 15: Bellingham Macy’s | 2:00PM – 4:00PM
50 E Bellis Fair Pkwy, Bellingham, WA 98226

Friday September 22: Alderwood Macy’s | 2:00PM – 4:00PM
18700 Alderwood Mall Pkwy, Lynnwood, WA 98037

Friday September 29: Southcenter Macy’s | 2:00PM – 4:00PM
500 Southcenter Mall, Tukwila, WA 98188

What's the Status of the Strike Authorization Vote?

We've chosen to delay the strike authorization vote and, in its place, arrange informational pickets, with an eye on early October for a potential vote.

This is because our Bargaining Team had requested information from the employer, but this request remained unfulfilled before our August 24 and 25 bargaining dates. The employer's inability to provide all the requested information made it difficult to fully evaluate the outstanding issues, leading to the decision to postpone the vote. However, the employer has committed to providing the information prior to our next set of bargaining dates, which will help our team make an informed decision about when and if a strike authorization vote is necessary.

Macy's Bargaining Update

“Our picket rocked, but it was just a warmup. Now it’s time to amp up the volume as we gear up for a likely strike authorization vote on our path towards a fair contract!” -Liisa Luick

Our Union Bargaining Team: Azia Domingo, Curtisy Bryant, Emily Hunter, Liisa Luick, Nicole Hardin.

Our Union Bargaining Team met with management again virtually on August 14, which was our first mediation date since our informational pickets.

Turnout at the Informational Pickets was STRONG and Southcenter, Alderwood, and Bellingham.UFCW 3000 members, community leaders, and politicians came out in force to show Macy’s that we all stand in solidarity for a strong contract. Customers often came up to the pickets to learn more about the event, all of the shocked that our employer is offering less than fifty cents raise despite historic inflation.

This is what power looks like, and Macy’s should consider our pickets a warning about what our collective power can achieve when they push us into action. While we hope the mediator will help us reach an agreement, nothing but a fair contract will stop workers on our action plan to win a fair contact.

The unfortunate part about federal mediation is that our Bargaining Team is not permitted to share details about specific conversations or ideas explored during mediation. Only when an official proposal is passed is our team allowed to share the contents of the proposal. The intent of this rule is to allow both parties to talk more freely about each other’s thoughts without having to commit or risk having them shared with the general public.

That being said, no formal proposal was passed to our Bargaining Team during our August 14 meeting with the mediator. While details of conversation cannot be shared, the team can report that this latest bargaining session was a total waste of time. While the employer seemed visibly angry because of our successful pickets, it felt as if they wanted to frustrate bargaining as a form of retaliation.

But make no mistake, we clearly made an impression on the employer through our solidarity. We will only continue our field campaign until they give in to our simple demands for fair wages, a safe workplace, and respect.

We return to in-person negotiations this week on August 24 and 25, as the employer will be flying into Seattle from Macy’s New York City headquarters. Our in-person sessions have been far more productive, so let’s hope that progress is made this week.

Unless there's significant progress this week, we will likely move forward with a strike vote on September 7th. This won't result in an immediate strike, but it will enable our Bargaining Team to potentially call for one in the future.
Stay tuned for an update next week.

Macy’s - NO PROGRESS AT THE TABLE

Macy’s
NO PROGRESS AT THE TABLE

“Macy’s says they don’t understand our proposal for a living wage, so let’s take to the streets to explain!” – Nicole Hardin, Bargaining Team Member

Our Bargaining Team met with Management again on July 31, our first date with a mediator from the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS).

FMCS is a U.S. government agency that provides mediation and arbitration services to assist unions and Employers reach an agreement during contentious labor disputes. Since previous talks have been unfruitful, we believe that mediation is a necessary.

Our priorities were clearly articulated to the mediator, with a primary focus on:

• Wage Increases: We are resolute in our demand for a fair general wage increase that accounts for historic inflation. We also want an extra wage boost for colleagues who have worked 10 or more years with the company.

• Wage Scales: Maintaining and updating our wage scales is crucial to ensuring that our compensation remains competitive, but Macys wants them gone entirely!

• Safety: It's a no-brainer—our workplace should be safe for everyone, whether you're a customer or a colleague. We're pushing for a contract that makes Macy's step up and make real changes to improve safety in the store.

• Furniture Gallery Hours: We're still not happy about the late-night business hours. It's hurting our commissions, and we think it was a bad move.

Despite or Bargaining Team’s willingness to engage with Management, it seems like Management isn't quite on the same page. The Employer refused to even give us a counter proposal! This means that their previous supposal of a $0.35 general wage increase, coupled with a mere $0.10 for colleagues with 15 or more years of service, remains on the table.

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. We firmly believe that it is time to take action! Join your co-workers at the informational pickets on Friday, August 11,@ 2pm—4pm. Your participation will send a powerful message to the Employer that we stand together in solidarity for a fair and just contract.

In the event an agreement is not reached this month, we may need to proceed with a strike authorization vote in September. This is not a step our Bargaining Team takes lightly, but it is imperative that we remain steadfast in our pursuit of a contract that addresses our concerns.

I’LL BE THERE!
PICKET ACTION RSVP
bit.ly/macys-info-picket-23 >>

UFCW 3000 Member Story: Nicole Hardin

Nicole Hardin ready for work at the Clinique Counter

Nicole Hardin has worked at the Alderwood Macy’s for nearly 16 years. Over the years she and her colleagues have fought for their wages, working conditions, and safety on the job (an increasingly important issue in retail). Nicole has been there for actions at her store, leaflets from leaflets to info pickets in front of the store.

As the attacks on working people have increased, Nicole has stepped up to become a shop steward, “I really enjoy being able to help colleagues clarify the [union] contract, and I enjoy being a person that colleagues can come to and address their concerns.”

When this year’s member bargaining committee was being formed, and the committee needed a beauty advisor from cosmetics on the team, Nicole jumped at the chance to represent her coworkers and department. “It’s been a great experience to see the inner workings of the union [member bargaining committee] and how hard they fight for us.”

And the fight is far from over. Negotiations have been going on since February, and Macy’s is still refusing to pay sustainable living wages to their workers and still needs to address store safety. The Bellingham, Alderwood, and Southcenter stores have all had strong-arm robberies and unruly customers getting physical with Macy’s workers during these negotiations.

Nicole and her coworkers are ready to do whatever it takes to win a fair contract. Info pickets have been scheduled for August 11th, and more actions are planned during what is a very Hot Labor Summer!

Info Picket Signs from the 2018 Macy’s Contract Campaign

Macy’s Update: Time to take it to the streets!

“Macy's has ignored us for too long, but we won't stay silent anymore! It's time to take charge, hit the streets, and make our voices heard loud and clear!” — Azia Domingo, Bargaining Team Member

Our Union Bargaining Team met with Management again July 18 and 19, with Macy’s maintaining their persistent disregard for our concerns.

On the first day, Macy's Management lashed out at our team, complaining that our proposal would mean too many raises for workers and taking issue with our idea to rework the wage scale for better career advancement.

The breaking point came when the Employer's supposal (non-committed proposal) offered a lower wage increase than their previous one. Seeing no progress, our Bargaining Team canceled bargaining on July 20 and instead visited worksites to talk to workers directly and present our strike pledge card to management.

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! We are not going to make any progress unless we take to the streets, therefore, an informational picket has been announced for August 11! Let this be a warning for the employer, our picket will only be a practice for a strike if they fail to offer us a fair contract with a fair wage increase!

In the meantime, we have reached out to a federal mediator to join our table to assist in reaching an agreement. We have scheduled bargaining dates with the mediator on August 1, 14, 24, and 25.

I’LL BE THERE! PICKET ACTION RSVP

bit.ly/macys-info-picket-23 >>

Contact Action Team Meetings:

Southcenter: August 2, 3-4PM - Southcenter Mall Food Court (2800 Southcenter Mall, Seattle, WA 98188)

Alderwood: July 31, 3-4PM - Elemental Pizza (3000 184th St SW #948, Lynnwood, WA 98037)

Bellingham: August 3, 1-2PM – Bellis Fair Mall Food Court (One Bellis Fair Pkwy, Bellingham, WA 98226)

Macy's - Bargaining Continues

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD AT THE NEXT CONTRACT ACTION TEAM MEETING!

Monday, July 31 @ 3-4PM
Elemental Pizza, 3000 184th St SW #948, Lynnwood, WA 98037

Wednesday, August 2 @ 3-4PM
Southcenter Mall Food Court, 2800 Southcenter Mall, Seattle, WA 98188

Thursday, August 3 @ 1-2PM
Bellis Fair Mall Food Court, One Bellis Fair Pkwy, Bellingham, WA 98226

“The hands of time are supposed to move forward, but Macy’s negotiations seem to defy that law as they appear to be spinning in place.” -Nicole Hardin, Bargaining Team Member, Alderwood Mall

Our Union Bargaining Team met with Management again June 27, 28 and July 13, 14.

Over the course of negotiations, Macy's Management has come forward with several concerning proposals. They attempted to replace our attendance language with their "reliability" program, remove our holiday pay language, increase the seasonal hire period, and remove our wage progressions. Additionally, their initial wage proposal was far below our expectations, offering only $0.40 at ratification, $0.35 in the second year, and $0.35 in the final year of the contract.

Alternatively, our Bargaining Team passed proposals to increase the number of paid holidays, implement a higher quality and more affordable Union healthcare plan, raise commission rates, improve deficit wipe-off language, and significant wage increases that recognize the skyrocketing cost of living.

Unfortunately, progress has been slow, and we haven't made substantial headway on most issues. Although we managed to get Macy's to drop their demand for the "reliability" program, they have remained firm on their other proposals, and continuing to offer a wage increase that is far less than we find acceptable. They consistently cite their financial struggles as the reason for their reluctance to meet our demands.

To break the deadlock, we have introduced "supposals" into the negotiation process. These are non-binding documents that allow both parties to share ideas without committing to them. Through this approach, we have explored potential avenues for compromise, such as considering a higher wage increase for long-term Macy's employees and reevaluating the structure of wage progressions.

While the supposal progress has shown some promise, we are still far from reaching an agreement. We believe that now is the time to take a stand and advocate for what is fair and just. Over 300 members (75% of the bargaining unit) have already signed the strike pledge card, showing their willingness to take action for a fair contract.

Negotiations will continue this week, and we hope for a breakthrough. However, if we cannot reach a agreement, we will be left with no choice but to proceed with an informational picket. We firmly believe that our collective strength will lead us to a better outcome.

Stay tuned for our next bargaining update!

Bargaining Team: Azia Domingo, Curtisy Bryant, Emily Hunter, Liisa Luick, Nicole Hardin

Macy’s Retail / Macy’s Furniture Gallery Stand up for liveable wages and benefits

We, the workers at Macy’s, demand that Management agrees to a fair contract that offers:

• Fair wage increases that keep up with skyrocketing inflation,

• High quality affordable healthcare,

• Significant safety improvements for both workers and customers.

I'll Take Action for a Fair Contract!

https://bit.ly/macys23

Bargaining Team: Azia Domingo, Curtisy Bryant, Emily Hunter, Liisa Luick.

Our Union Bargaining Team recently met with Macy's Management from June 13-15 to continue discussions for our upcoming contract.

Throughout the meeting, we emphasized the urgent need for substantial wage increases and other economic benefits to offset inflation and the soaring cost of living. We also highlighted the importance of recognizing the tenure and loyalty of existing employees, especially as new hires are being brought in at higher pay rates than ever before due to the rising minimum wage.

In addition to wage increases, our team expressed an openness to exploring alternative solutions to address the current affordability crisis. This includes seeking more affordable healthcare options, higher commissions, or any other economic benefits that can supplement our wage adjustments. However, Macy's responded by expressing their struggles as a company and repeatedly referred to their poor performance as mentioned in recent news reports. As a result, they have shown very little flexibility in their wage proposal, offering a mere $0.40 raise in the first year and $0.35 raises in the second and third years of our contract.

During negotiations, our Bargaining Team highlighted the significant wage increases won by UFCW Local 3000 grocery store workers, underscoring that Macy's proposal falls far below the new industry standard. Shockingly, the Employer responded by stating that "we are not essential workers" and thus don't deserve comparable wage increases. Such a statement is outrageous and deeply disrespectful!

On a positive note, while little progress has been made on most issues, the Employer has decided to withdraw their proposal to implement the "Reliability" attendance program. This is good news as workers at non-union stores have reported negative experiences with this program. We can now breathe a sigh of relief knowing that it will not be implemented in our store.

The lack of productivity and disrespect in our meetings with Macy’s indicates that we must be prepared to take action! Show your support and solidarity by signing the strike pledge card today, sending a clear message against the insulting behavior exhibited by the Employer.

Macy's - Contract Action Team Meeting

Contract Action Team Meeting

Monday, June 5 @ 12—3PM
Southcenter Mall - Food Court, 2800 Southcenter Mall, Seattle

Tuesday, June 6 @ 3—4PM
Alderwood Mall - Elemental Pizza, 3000 184th St SW #948, Lynnwood

Join your coworkers to prepare for upcoming negotiations and how to win a fair contract! If you have any questions, please contact a Bargaining Team member or Union Rep.

Macy’s Retail / Macy’s Furniture Gallery - Macy’s Initial Economic Proposal is Unacceptable

“Our Union Bargaining Team is disappointed and outraged by the employer’s insulting initial economic proposal, which blatantly disregards the skyrocketing cost of living and the value of long-term employees.”

— Curtisy Bryant

Bargaining Team: Azia Domingo, Curtisy Bryant, Emily Hunter, Liisa Luick.

Our Union Bargaining Team met with the employer on May 31, 2023 to receive their initial economic proposal.

Macy’s initial proposal included:

• An insulting $0.35 wage increase per year

• Elimination of all wage progressions/scales

• Rejection of all the Union’s commission proposals

• Plan to replace our holiday language with the employer’s non-union holiday program

The Employer’s proposal for a lousy $0.35 wage increase is totally unacceptable and insulting. And to make matters worse, they don’t seem to care about our years of service by wanting to scrap wage progressions altogether. It’s a slap in the face to long-term employees who won’t be able to move up the ladder compared to new hires. This is already a big problem, and their proposal would only make it worse, making it clear they don’t value our experience and dedication.

To make matters worse, the Employer intends to replace our holiday language with their non-union program. Under this program, holiday pay (1.5x pay) would only be provided on Thanksgiving and Christmas (one of which we are already been closed), and potentially on “Key Business Days” that will be determined solely by management.

The situation is further exacerbated by the fact that the Employer’s holiday proposal includes loopholes that would possibly allow them to schedule no Key Business Days or even completely eliminate the holiday program. It is worth noting that the employer scheduled four Key Business Days last year, but there is no guarantee that they will continue to do so in the future. Our Union Bargaining Team firmly stands against any language that grants the employer the discretionary power to cease the holiday program at their own whim.

Take action for a fair contract NOW! Sign the strike pledge card today in solidarity against the employer’s insulting initial economic offer.

We, the workers at Macy’s, demand that Management agrees to a fair contract that offers:

• Fair wage increases that keep up with skyrocketing inflation,

• High quality affordable healthcare,

• Significant safety improvements for both workers and customers.

Macy’s - It’s Time to Take Action

Bargaining Team: Azia Domingo, Curtisy Bryant, Emily Hunter, Liisa Luick

Our Union Bargaining Team met with management again on May 11 to continue negotiations for our next contract. After winning stronger safety language earlier in the week, our Bargaining Team decided it was finally time to submit our initial economic proposal.

Workers reported on the bargaining survey that new hires are being paid nearly the same as long term employees, draw vs. commission deficits are pilling up, and our current healthcare options are eating away at our paychecks.

In response, our Bargaining Team proposed:

• A significant wage scale revamp that ensures our wages keep up with the cost of living and honors our years of service,

• ...Increases to all commissions,

• ...Bimonthly deficit wipe-offs for all draw vs. commission associates,

• ...and a new high-quality and affordable Union healthcare option.

We know that Macy’s will not give into any of our demands without a serious fight, but we are willing to do what it takes to earn the respect that we deserve from our employer.

Show Macy’s that you are willing to join the fight and do whatever it takes to win a fair contract by SIGNING THE STRIKE PLEDGE CARD!

We, the workers at Macy’s, demand that Management agrees to a fair contract that offers:

• Fair wage increases that keep up with skyrocketing inflation,

• High quality affordable healthcare,

• Significant safety improvements for both workers and customers.

Macy's - Bargaining dates scheduled

Macy’s
Bargaining Dates Scheduled

Our Union Bargaining Team met with Management last on March 23, more than an entire month ago. We tried to work with the Employer to get dates in April, but they were not quick to respond to our proposed dates until it was too late. Now that we finally have confirmed four bargaining sessions in the month of May with more scheduled in June.

Workers have been ramping up the pressure in the meantime by wearing our “Respect, Protect, Pay” buttons while at work. Wearing your button has shown both customers and Management that we deserve a fair union contract, and this is just the beginning!

Learn more about what you can do to win a fair contract by attending your Contract Action Team Meeting next week:

Alderwood: Wednesday, May 10 @ 3PM—4PM
Elemental Pizza, 3000 184th St SW #948, Lynnwood, WA

Southcenter: Tuesday May 9 @ 11AM – 2PM
Southcenter Mall Food Court, 2800 Southcenter Mall, Seattle, WA

UFCW 3000 Member Story: Liisa Luick

Liisa Luick shop steward and Bargaining Team member from Alderwood Macy’s!

Liisa Luick is a dedicated shop steward from Macy's at the Alderwood Mall where she has worked since 2008. She loves advocating for her coworkers and fellow union members, knows her contract, and makes sure that store management knows it too.

When Macy’s reopened after the COVID-19 lockdown ended, Liisa also stepped up to make sure that safety issues with the ongoing pandemic and short staffing coupled with the ever-increasing problem of unruly customers and organized retail theft were being addressed. She went on to be featured as a spokesperson for her coworkers in the local press and the New York Times to highlight these important safety issues.

Recently she helped organize leaflets at her store in support of members of UFCW Local 5 working at the San Francisco Macy's, who had been negotiating their contract for over 8 months! Liisa also flew to the Bay Area to join UFCW 5 members at the bargaining table in a show of solidarity at what would be the final negotiation session where Local 5 reached a tentative agreement.

Liisa brought her experience back to her coworkers and joined the bargaining committee for the Macy’s contract negotiations that have gotten underway. As a member of the committee, she knows that the Union’s power starts and ends with what members are willing to do to fight for a fair contract. Liisa and all the Macy’s stewards and leaders keep their coworkers organized and out at every action. Way to go Liisa!

Macy’s Mall & Furniture Gallery “Reliability” rears it’s head again!

Macy’s Mall & Furniture Gallery: “Reliability” rears it’s head again!

“We’re disappointed that Macy’s is once again trying to propose the reliability attendance program, something we have rejected on numerous occasions. Furthering our disappointment, the Employer has so far refused to meaningfully engage with any of our proposals, including our safety improvements.” — Nicole Hardin, Alderwood Macy’s

Our Union Bargaining Team: Azia Domingo, Curtesy Bryant, Emily Hunter, Liisa Luick, Nichole Hardin.

Our Union Bargaining Team began contract negotiations with Macy’s shortly after UFCW Local 5 settled their contentious negotiations with the Employer in San Francisco.

Our siblings in California fought hard for their contract after Macy’s played hardball until the Members went on strike during the holiday season. Alderwood Member Lissa Luick joined their table towards the end to show our solidarity and to take what she learned back home as a member of our own Bargaining Team.

Unfortunately, Macy’s has brought their negative attitude to the Puget Sound. Our first few days of negotiations have led to very little progress with the employer unwilling to meaningfully address any of our issues. Initial talks have focused on safety, but the employer has showed little interest in accepting even the very same language they agreed to add to the San Francisco contract!

To make matters worse, Macy’s has once again proposed to implement their terrible “Reliability” attendance plan that the Union has rejected during previous negotiations. Many of us have heard from staff at non-union stores that the ”Reliability” attendance program is terrible. Hard to understand, difficult to track, and far too much power given to Management. Our Bargaining Team has once again rejected the employer’s proposal, opting instead to propose our own improvements to the existing attendance credit system.

We are severely disappointed (but not surprised) by Macy’s behavior. Their unwillingness to work with our team before even getting to the more difficult conversations about wages is not promising. But if it’s a fight they want, it’s a fight we’ll give them!

Attend our upcoming Contract Action Team (CAT) meetings to learn more about negotiations and what you can do to help our Bargaining Team win a fair contract!

Contract Action Team Meetings:

Alderwood: Tuesday, March 28
3PM—4PM Elemental Pizza (3000 184th St SW #948, Lynnwood, WA 98037)

Southcenter: Tuesday, March 28
11AM—2PM Southcenter Mall Food Court (2800 Southcenter Mall, Seattle, WA 98188)

Bellingham: TBD in April

Share Your Story on the Safety Survey!

Our Union Bargaining Team has proposed changes to our contract that address the serious safety issues that we face in the workplace. In order to pressure Macy’s into meaningful change, we are collecting member stories that show the employer the unsafe reality that their workers face every day. Please share your story by following the link to our safety survey. >>

Remembering Candice Hemphill

Over the decades, Candice Hemphill was a leader in this union, her union. As a Macy’s worker, she felt a connection with co-workers and customers. What she demanded at work was respect from her employer, and at the most basic level, that respect is what she fought for. The headline of her column in a local paper in 2018 read “Macy’s workers unite for better working conditions and respect.” That says a lot about how she approached union activism. A call for unity. A call for better conditions at work, the place where we spend a large part of our lives. That call for respect, something that does not cost the employer anything, is often hard to get an employer to understand; but time after time Ms. Candice succeeded in making sure that it was heard.

Candice’s efforts toward worker solidarity took place in a consistent, relentless, and effective manner year after year. Whether it was coming to a large training of union stewards, getting co-workers to wear MACY’S UNITED buttons (like in the picture below) during a nationwide Macy’s action, or speaking at a national press conference, she was both fierce and friendly. It was those two things that would often make her so effective and so inspiring to others. Her smile would welcome everyone into the group; her ability to stare anyone down would show that she meant business. Her persistence demonstrated to everyone that she was not going to be ignored or worn out.

Here Canide has covered her sweater in Macy’s United Buttons, making it easier for her to hand them out to co-workers and to make a statement to everyone about our collective activism.

For those of us who knew her, we know how lucky we are. We were blessed by her energy, her smile, her empathetic nature, and her sense of humor and wit – a  comment delivered with a sly grin provided just the right medicine after a long day of bargaining or a cold and rainy leaflet action. Last but surely not least was her sense of style and fashion that would outshine most of us any day of the week, no one else could wear warm layers on a 75-degree day like Candice.

Stories about her activism come to mind quickly when looking back over the years. She helped win advances and protections in her Macy’s contract, bargain after bargain. She was one of many members of our union who serve on bargaining committees, sitting across the table from the employer, pushing for progress. Despite not being able to return to work at Macy’s in 2021 because of the pandemic and her health she still served on Macy’s bargaining committee and led her coworkers to take repeated action to fight for a fair contract.  She did all of that by calling and texting her coworkers remotely, which is why Candice is one of the most gifted labor organizers ever. That’s the kind of member-led union Candice wanted and it is the union she helped build.

Candice also attended community meetings, rallies, marches, and events to build a bigger and more powerful movement. After having pushed for Paid Sick Days for years in contract negotiations, Candice was one of the hundreds of our union members who helped qualify the Paid Sick and Safe Leave/Higher Minimum Wage Initiative in 2016 and then made sure voters passed it into law. That one law has changed the lives of hundreds of thousands of workers who needed Paid Sick & Safe Time.

At an event in 2015, Candice got up in front of a large audience and did what she did so well. She told her story in a way that made others want to be part of the change that needed to happen. Here is what she said:

“Good evening. It is an honor to be here tonight and to speak with you all. Let’s talk for a minute about the struggle for fairness. Our successes that have taken place and those which have yet come to pass. It means so much to me, to workers everywhere, to our customers, and everyone in the community.

My name in Candice and I love helping people. I love my co-workers and I love my family. I also love my union UFCW 21. I love justice.

I have a weakened immune system that makes it dangerous for me to get sick or be exposed to people who are sick. So if I, or one of my co-workers is sick, I need to make sure we are all safe. I need people to be able to stay home, rest, drink plenty of fluids, and get well before they return to work. Not come to work sick so they don’t miss a day’s pay. 

But I also understand that is a false choice to put before someone who has to pay the rent.

I need parents to be able to stay at home and care for a child when they are ill and not send that kid to school so they can go to work themselves because they don’t have paid sick days. But I understand that parent also needs to provide for that child’s well-being with food, shelter, and clothing and may not be able to forgo a day or two of pay to care for a sick family member.

We need this injustice resolved.

My health and well-being is connected to all of you. And your health and well-being is connected to thousands of others in the community. Where we work. Where children go to school and play. The library, the community pool. The grocery store. The bus. The restaurant. The movie theater. We are literally all connected in our community. One person’s fate touches everyone else.

That is why we have fought for and continue to press on for paid sick leave for all.  We have not won it yet. But we have been denied justice before and fought on. That is how we won it in Seattle. That is why I joined our US Senator Patty Murray on a press conference call to advocate for national paid sick and safe leave. That is why I have gone to our state’s capital to push for a new state law. That is why we will keep it up TOGETHER to win where we can win and keep pushing elsewhere. Thank you.”

Thirteen months after she gave that speech, we passed Paid Sick and Safe Leave for all in Washington.

We know that Candice will be dearly missed by her former co-workers, her union colleagues, all her friends, and family members including nieces and nephews to whom she was a dear Auntie. You are in our thoughts and prayers. 

Macy’s - Negotiations Underway

Macy’s
Negotiations Underway

On February 14, we met with Macy’s Management for the first time and presented them with proposals to improve:

• Scheduling

• Holidays (including the ongoing issue of the MLK day PTO)

• And security and safety in the workplace that would enhance protections in the store from unruly and even violent members of the public, and require de-escalation and anti-bias training for all employees that are more than just a computer module we complete once a year.

We also had discussions about the Draw v. Commission system, and flex colleagues being assigned shifts. Macy’s didn’t have proposals for us, as they wanted to respond to our initial proposals. Our committee is going to meet again to finalize more proposals on February 24, in anticipation of our next bargaining session on February 28, and March 1.

“At all our stores, our personal security is increasingly at risk. Today we made proposals to help make sure we are safe at work. I hope Macy’s management takes them seriously.”

- Curtisy Bryant, Impulse and Benefits Counter Manager, Southcenter Store

Macy’s UFCW 5 fights hard and wins a strong contract —We’re next

Workers at Macy’s West Coast Union Square flagship store in San Francisco have ratified a new contract, averting a threatened open-ended strike. The agreement will run through May 31, 2025.

The deal comes after nearly eight months of negotiations and a two-day strike just prior to Christmas Day. Highlights of the settlement include wage increases totaling $1.50 an hour, a ratification bonus of up to $1,200, severance pay of up to 52 weeks for employees who leave the company, new health and safety language and the maintenance of existing seniority rights; one of the most contentious issues at the bargaining table.

“Our members made it clear to the company that they were united in their determination to take whatever action was necessary, including a long strike, to win the contract that they deserved from a very profitable company,” said UFCW Local 5 President John Nunes. “The two-day strike demonstrated that we were serious and that consumers were behind us. Now our members look forward to putting this chapter behind them and continuing to offer the high-quality San Francisco shopping experience that Macy’s customers have come to expect.”

“The members at UFCW5 are fighting for what we all at Macy’s are fighting for, better pay, safer stores and dignity and respect on the job. When I visited the bargaining table this Monday for UFCW5 members it was clear to me that the issues are the same whether you work at a Macy’s in San Francisco or in the Puget Sound. I am proud to stand with San Francisco Macy’s worker and their fight for a better contract and I know when it comes time for us to fight, they will stand with us.” -Liisa Luick, Macy’s Alderwood WA, UFCW 3000

We are currently working with the employer to secure bargaining dates. Our contract expires on February 17.

Update your info! ufcw3000.org/update-your-information

Don’t miss out on important information like bargaining updates, Your Voice surveys, contract votes, union benefits, events and more!

Macy's - Contracts Ratified

MACY'S CONTRACTS RATIFIED

With the flooding in Bellingham last week, voting took longer than was expected; but last night members in Bellingham showed up to vote, then counted all of the votes, and the results were clear; the new contracts for both the mall stores and the furniture galleries & clearance center have been ratified. Macy’s has said that they are moving forward with implementation of the new contract, so workers should see their raises and the retro in about a month.

Contact your union rep with any questions.

Macy’s - New Vote Date in Bellingham

Today’s vote was canceled due to the flooding emergency in the region, all other vote locations are open normally today, but there will be a rescheduled vote in Bellingham.

Vote meetings for both the Macy’s mall store contract and Macy’s Furniture Gallery Contract have been scheduled for this fully recommended offer that includes wage increases, new safety and pandemic language, and NO TAKE AWAYS! Full details of the tentative agreement will be available at the vote meetings.

Please make sure to arrive with enough time to review the offer and ask questions prior to the end of the meeting.

UFCW 21 members in good standing are encouraged to attend the meeting, ask questions, and vote on the contract.

Join your coworkers and vote on the new contract!

Monday, November 22
8am - 12pm
3pm - 7pm

Oxford Suites Bellingham
4051 Meridian St
Belllingham, WA 98226

Macy’s Ratification Vote Meetings

Vote meetings for both the Macy’s mall store contract and Macy’s Furniture Gallery Contract have been scheduled for this fully recommended offer that includes wage increases, new safety and pandemic language, and NO TAKE AWAYS! Full details of the tentative agreement will be available at the vote meetings.

Please make sure to arrive with enough time to review the offer and ask questions prior to the end of the meeting.

UFCW 21 members in good standing are encouraged to attend the meeting, ask questions, and vote on the contract.

Join your coworkers and vote on the new contract at one of the locations!

Tuesday, November 16
8am - 12pm
3pm - 7pm

Oxford Suites Bellingham
4051 Meridian St
Belllingham, WA 98226

Lynnwood Convention Center
3711 196th St SW
Lynwood, WA 98036

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Southcenter
16500 Southcenter Pkwy
Seattle, WA 98188

Macy's - Tentative Agreement Reached with Macy’s!

The bargaining committee is happy to announce that we have reached a fully recommended tentative agreement for a new union contract! In the coming days we will be announcing the dates, times, and places for the vote meetings. Full details of the tentative agreement will be available at the vote meetings.

This fully recommended offer that includes wage increases, new safety and pandemic language, and NO TAKE AWAYS!