Workers at two cannabis dispensaries in Pasadena, Calif., joined Local 770 in December. The workers are employed at UFD Apothecary and Golden State Collective.
UFCW Local 770 is already the largest union of dispensary employees in Southern California, and the addition of the two Pasadena shops marks the local union’s first successful organizing of dispensaries located beyond the city of Los Angeles.
“Our union’s mission is to ensure that all workers in the industries we represent have good, secure jobs that pay living wages, and enable our members to provide for themselves and their families,” said UFCW Local 770 President Rick Icaza. “With the 2015 passage of the Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act, and Proposition 64 last November, cannabis is positioned to become the fastest growing segment of our union. Our victories in Pasadena mark a significant first step toward making that a reality.”
The new union members are excited to enjoy the advantages of a union job. Bernice Caro, an employee at UFD Apothecary, said: “I voted to join Local 770 to ensure my rights on the job are protected, and to win better wages and benefits for my future.”
“Having a union will allow us to have our voices heard,” said Nalleli Santiago, an employee at Golden State Collective. “By negotiating a contract, we will have security in our workplace while being a part of a bigger team devoted to caring for patients.”