For the first time in nearly 40 years, thousands of Philadelphia’s essential city workers are on strike, and the effects are already being felt across neighborhoods. Here’s everything you need to know right now.
Who is on strike?
Nearly 10,000 members of District Council 33 (DC 33) -Philadelphia’s largest blue-collar municipal union- walked off the job Tuesday after contract negotiations stalled.
This includes workers who handle trash pickup, 911 calls, city pools, sanitation, and more.
Why is District Council 33 striking?
DC 33 is demanding better compensation and support, In their proposal, union leaders called for:
- 8% annual raises over three years
- $5,000 bonuses for workers who stayed active during the pandemic
- Full health care coverage (roughly $1,700/month per employee)
“District Council 33’s members contribute as much blood, sweat and tears as anyone else,” union leadership wrote. “We all make the city work. Our contract must reflect that reality.”
What did the city offer?
Mayor Cherelle Parker says the city offered:
- A 13% raise over four years
- A new fifth step in the pay scale to align with other unionized workers
“We put our best offer on the table,” Parker said. “We are ready, willing, and able to resume negotiations with the union at their convenience.”
How does this strike affect daily life?
Residents should prepare for
- Suspended trash collection
- Limited pool hours and rec center closures
- Longer wait times for 911 and non-emergency calls
City officials are opening drop-off trash sites and asking residents to be patient and stay on the line if they call 911 or 311.
Is the Fourth of July still happening?
Indeed. Mayor Parker confirmed that Fourth of July celebrations in Philadelphia will proceed as planned.
“Keep your holiday plans. Don’t leave the city,” she said.