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Arts and Culture
MPR News Staff

First Avenue workers ratify first union contract

people walk with signs
Union workers and supporters demonstrate in front of First Avenue nightclub in Minneapolis. The union representing First Avenue service and event staff on Tuesday announced it has ratified its first contract.
Feven Gerezgiher | 2024

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More than 200 workers at First Avenue and all of the music venues it owns and operates have ratified their first union contract.

The union said it was a unanimous vote for a three-year contract that includes pay raises, improved scheduling, training and safety policies and protections for LGBTQ+ workers.

“I’m overwhelmed and very grateful we have our contract,” said Heidi Thompson, a 25-year First Avenue worker, in a news release from the union, UNITE HERE Local 17. “The changes to scheduling — having it come out more than a few days in advance — mean I’ll have an easier time making plans with my family and friends. This will make such a difference for me and all the staff that come after.”

In addition to First Avenue, 7th St Entry and The Depot Tavern, the contract covers service and event staff at the Turf Club, Fine Line, Palace Theatre and Fitzgerald Theater. Workers said they hope the contract can be a model for other venues.

“I’ve been pinching money at the end of the month for as long as I can remember, and the raises will make things significantly easier for me. I am thankful that First Avenue was willing to work with us to make the clubs better, and I’m hopeful that our efforts here can continue to spread outwards,” Kyle Tappe, who’s been on the event staff at First Avenue for three years, said in the union news release. “I’m so proud of the incredibly tough and powerful organizing my coworkers and I have all done together.”

In a statement, First Avenue management said the agreement “reflects the commitment we made to these employees when we voluntarily recognized the union — ensuring we continue to be a rewarding and fun place to work, while providing the best entertainment and live music to fans.”