Chicago Musicians' Leader Fights for Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces

Karen Suarez-Flint, Secretary-Treasurer of the Chicago Federation of Musicians, American Federation of Musicians Local 10-208, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss her journey as a musician, the importance of union representation in the music industry, and her efforts to combat sexual harassment in classical music.

Suarez-Flint shared her experience transitioning from non-union to union work environments, highlighting the stark differences in working conditions and protections. She recounted a summer gig with a non-union opera orchestra, where musicians faced unsafe working conditions. These conditions often led to injuries and even unjust terminations, she said. This experience led Suarez-Flint to recognize the critical role unions play in ensuring fair treatment and safe workplaces for musicians and led her to become a union advocate.

The conversation turned to the exploitation of musicians, particularly in the hip-hop industry. Suarez-Flint exposed the "pay-to-play" culture and the inadequate compensation artists receive from streaming platforms. She said there is a need for collective action to address these issues, claiming, "Streaming is just sheer theft." Her efforts to organize hip-hop artists and educate them about their rights are just one effort in the ongoing struggle for fair compensation in the music industry.

As founder of the Change the Culture Committee, Suarez-Flint is helping lead the fight against sexual harassment and abuse in classical music. She explained how the industry's structure often protects predators and silences victims, leading many talented musicians to leave the field. Her committee's work has resulted in the implementation of an anonymous reporting app for union members across the United States and Canada. Suarez-Flint said there’s still work to do, but this marked a significant step toward creating safer work environments for musicians.

To hear more about Suarez-Flint's efforts to improve working conditions for musicians, listen to the full episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast above.