New York, NY -- Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU) members at 13 International Rescue Committee (IRC) offices ratified their first union contract today, bringing wage increases, just cause protections and permanent employment to nearly 700 workers dedicating their careers to supporting refugees, immigrants and people in conflict zones. 

These OPEIU members help the world’s most vulnerable people access healthcare, education and economic opportunities, all amidst escalating immigration crackdowns and global conflict. Now, they are on the path to achieving a dignified workplace and adequate salary that acknowledges the importance of their work.

“This contract means I don’t have to beg in order to be treated fairly. It means now I have policies in place at the worksite that I helped craft that are worker-centered, that are realistic expectations made by people who are actually doing the work,” said Grace Aguirre, crisis case manager at IRC’s Oakland office. “I can now show up to my job, which is to care for children and their families, knowing there is a contract and union taking care of me.”

IRC workers earned permanent employment for people previously maintained as “limited-term staff,” improved workplace safety standards and stronger recourse for excessive workloads. Their union, IRC Workers Unite (IRCWU)/OPEIU, also achieved recall rights for anyone who might be laid off in the future, the establishment of a “Labor Management Committee” that gives workers a stronger voice in their office and a more robust training program to prepare them for the complex issues they address on the job.

“Through these contract wins, IRC workers are now on the path to earning what they deserve for their invaluable service to refugees, those living through war and all who believe in universal human dignity. This win is a testament to the organizing prowess and bargaining chops of the OPEIU members at IRC, and the wide-ranging gains unions can secure for nonprofit workers,” said Tyler Turner, OPEIU president.

IRC workers provide a range of vital services helping displaced people settle and thrive in the United States, including English classes, legal services and case management. They also conduct research and perform logistical support to their programs on the ground in countries ranging from Ukraine to Sudan.

Organizing efforts began at IRC’s Dallas office in 2023 and quickly spread to 12 other cities nationwide. While different offices will be represented by various OPEIU local unions, this contract covers members nationwide.

"Winning our contract was an incredibly emotional experience,” said Jodi Camino, a school success caseworker in IRC’s Atlanta office. “Experiencing that win in community really reminded me that in addition to the contract articles that will make a really concrete difference in my financial security, working conditions and quality of life, our biggest win is we now have a voice, community and collective power.”

With these 13 offices, close to half of IRC's U.S.-based employees are now unionized with OPEIU. IRC is one of the world’s largest nonprofit organizations, employing more than 17,000 people in more than 40 countries. OPEIU’s organizing efforts follow previous union victories at IRC offices overseas, and members hope their contract will inspire nonunion IRC workers across the country and world to organize.