Workers at the iconic clubs organized in 2023 for respectful scheduling, fair pay, and improved training; their new contract meets their goals

Minneapolis – Workers across First Avenue’s seven venues in the Twin Cities voted unanimously this weekend to approve a groundbreaking union contract with big raises, longevity pay that respects their years of hard work; improved scheduling, training and safety policies; protections for LGBT+ workers; and more.

The three-year contract covers 230 service and event staff with UNITEHERE Local 17 at First Avenue, 7th St. Entry, Depot Tavern, Turf Club, Fine Line, Palace Theatre, and Fitzgerald Theater.

“I’m overwhelmed and very grateful we have our contract,” said Heidi Thompson, who has worked at First Avenue for 25 years. “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.”

“I’ve watched a lot of my best friends leave the club because the job wasn’t sustainable or they didn’t feel respected, but this contract makes a lot of steps to change that. 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. I’m so proud of the incredibly tough and powerful organizing my coworkers and I have all done together,” said Kyle Tappe, event staff at First Avenue for three years.

“For all venue workers in the Twin Cities, now is the time for you to unionize your workplace: First Ave workers won more for themselves and you can too,” said Sheigh Freeberg, secretary treasurer of UNITE HERE Local 17.