Dancers at the Washington Ballet joined the American Guild of Musical Artists because of concerns over injuries and other safety and health issues.  But the Washington Ballet is stonewalling the union's attempts to negotiate an agreement for the dancers.  And now they’ve locked the dancers out and canceled scheduled performances of "The Nutcracker.”

The dancers want just what any other employees want: a safe working environment, protection against discrimination, protection against mean-spirited, vindictive and arbitrary treatment, and a contract that guarantees their rights as employees and as great dancers.  After a year of negotiations they still don't have a first contract and the Washington Ballet refuses to provide its dancers with any reasonable level of protection against injury.

Tell The Washington Ballet its Dancers Deserve Better - Write a Letter Now

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I was upset to hear that you've cancelled performances of "The Nutcracker." I'm more dismayed to learn how your dancers are treated.

Your dancers want what all employees deserve - a safe working environment, and protection against discrimination and arbitrary treatment. They've stood up for their rights and you should take their requests seriously.

Please reconsider your decision to lockout your dancers. Go back to the table to negotiate with your workers. They deserve a contract that guarantees their rights as employees and as great dancers.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
December 16, 2005