Chicago Climbing Union fighting for safety and fair treatment

Rachel Martinez, organizer and bargaining committee member for the Chicago Climbing Union, Workers United Local 513, joined America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss unionization efforts in climbing gyms, safety concerns, gender disparities and the importance of collective bargaining in the climbing industry.

Safety remains a paramount concern in climbing gyms, with route setters facing significant risks. Martinez highlighted an incident with the loss of life in New Hampshire where a route setter died on the job due to equipment failure. Martinez said the industry has an urgent need for standardized safety protocols and proper personal protective equipment (PPE). The union has made strides in addressing these issues, with provisions for PPE and thorough training requirements written into their contract. Martinez discussed establishing industry-wide safety standards to protect workers in this unique and growing field.

Gender disparities persist in the climbing industry, something Martinez's experienced firsthand. When discussing the need for better wages and benefits, her employer suggested she didn't need to work since her boyfriend could support her. For Martinez, this moment reinforced her commitment to fighting for equal treatment and fair compensation for all workers, regardless of gender. According to Martinez, the union's efforts extend beyond individual gyms, with a focus on setting industry standards that promote equality and respect for all employees.

Unionization efforts in climbing gyms are gaining momentum across the country. Martinez discussed Vital Climbing in Brooklyn's recent success in securing its first contract and ongoing organizing efforts at other gyms. The Chicago Climbing Union is actively supporting these initiatives, including an upcoming solidarity event for First Ascent, another climbing gym in Chicago. This growing network of unionized climbing gyms is working to establish better working conditions, fair wages and improved safety standards across the industry.

To hear more about the Chicago Climbing Union's efforts and the growing trend of unionization in climbing gyms, listen to the full episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast above.