Dēmos and Dēmos United Announce Voluntary Recognition of Staff Union

Dēmos and Dēmos United are proud to announce voluntary recognition of Dēmos’ first-ever bargaining unit. Dēmos United, the staff union, has organized as part of Office and Professional Employees International Union, OPEIU Local 153. With this voluntary recognition, Dēmos honors both our organizational values and the vital role that our staff play in our work to advance a just, inclusive democracy and an economy that works for everyone, particularly Black and brown communities.  

By voluntarily recognizing our staff union, we’re reaffirming our commitment to the people who power our mission.

“Dēmos believes in workplace democracy and has always valued strong partnerships with labor organizations,” said Taifa Smith Butler, president of Dēmos. “By voluntarily recognizing our staff union, we’re reaffirming our commitment to the people who power our mission. Their work helps amplify the critical voices of everyday people that build thriving communities. We look forward to working together to strengthen Dēmos’ impact and reach at this critical juncture in our nation’s history.” 

Dēmos United believes that the principles we advocate for in the world must also flourish within our own workplace.

Candace Milner from Dēmos United, affiliated with OPEIU Local 153, said, “We are excited to form the first-ever union at Dēmos. Dēmos United believes that the principles we advocate for in the world—racial justice, economic justice, worker power, and democratic participation—must also flourish within our own workplace. We’re deeply grateful for all of the support we have received as we take this step toward equitable practices, transparent decision-making, and meaningful staff participation. This milestone represents a victory for worker power, the kind of win we strive to see in every sector and industry.”