Brookfield Zoo Workers Begin Picket Line

Employees at the Brookfield Zoo have commenced a strike following the expiration of their contract on May 1st. The union stated that new contract negotiations have stalled due to a dispute regarding health care contributions. The zoo remains open to the public and is operating as usual. However, the union claims many animals will not be on display and certain guest experiences, such as dolphin shows, may be affected or canceled. Members of the Teamsters Union are on strike at the Brookfield Zoo. The impact of the strike on zoo operations was not mentioned. The union cited a dozen different unfair labor practices as the reason for the walkout. The union reported that negotiations ended just before 4 p.m. on Friday after a good faith effort to settle the contract failed. Dozens of union employees began picketing in front of the Brookfield Zoo on Monday. The workers are seeking to address understaffing, healthcare, and wage increases to match rising living expenses. Union leadership accused the zoo of failing to negotiate in good faith, stating the institution made no movement during the most recent negotiating session.