AFSCME Michigan welcomes our newest members, Detroit Institute of Arts Workers United (DIAWU)

AFSCME Michigan is pleased to welcome our newest unit, the Detroit Institute of Arts Cultural Workers United (DIAWU). With over 200 members, this group worked diligently to build its unit and ensure that all eligible DIA members could garner the benefits of union representation. 

“On Friday, February 27, 2026, Detroit Institute of Arts Workers United won voluntary recognition of our union. A sonotone vote and card check was conducted in order to determine whether or not professionals and non-professionals wanted to be represented in one unit,” explained Grey Stone, member of DIAWU. “DIAWU members unanimously voted yes to be represented as one large, strong unit! We are extremely excited and proud of this accomplishment. We look forward to working together with the DIA at the bargaining table.” 

“DIAWU was a prime example of how collaboration and teamwork can build a strong union,” said Gino Carbenia, Executive Director of AFSCME Michigan. “From the start of the organizing campaign, until they were voluntarily recognized by the DIA, this group worked to build one collective voice and ensure that they worked in lockstep to show their strength and solidarity.”

These individuals will be joining the nearly 40,000 collective bargaining members that AFSCME Michigan represents across the State of Michigan.