Who are we?

We are the unionized staff of Gateway Film Center: a collective of workers united in our advocacy for fair labor practices, fight for an equitable workplace, and belief in the transformative power of film. Through collective action, we advocate for living wages, safe working conditions, and meaningful professional growth for all staff—because great cinema requires a workforce that is respected, protected, and empowered. 

Why we organized:

We love the Film Center. We believe it is a vital cultural resource and a pillar of the Columbus arts community. As the employees on the floor, we are responsible for signing up myGFC members, connecting with patrons, and building the strong sense of community that keeps Gateway Film Center alive and well. That is the work we love doing, and that is the reason why we all work here.

It is also why we could not sit back and do nothing as Film Center leadership has enacted insulting policy changes, fired our coworkers without just cause, refused raises for employees who have been with the company for 3+ years, released increasingly sporadic and unreliable team schedules, altered the pay of entire positions without formal communication to the affected employees, and more. We want to be heard and protected so that we can better show up for each other, ourselves, and our community.

What we are working towards:

We would like to see Gateway Film Center leadership implement regular raises to retain staff longer and ensure a living wage for all full-time employees; streamline communication regarding policy, procedure, and discipline; guarantee full-time hours for full-time employees; and treat all employees on the floor with respect and dignity.

To use the words of the Film Center, we are “committed to screening films from around the world within a sustainable business model.” We want the Film Center to run sustainably; this means ensuring that workers are protected, respected, and empowered, as well as excited—and able—to work at the Film Center for years, not months. 

How can you help?

Right now, we need our community to share their support. Sign this petition to let Film Center leadership know that you stand with the workers as we work through negotiating our first contract.

Want to do more?

If you would like to financially support GFCU's general fund, you can contribute here. These contributions help cover creative endeavors (like our zines) and other union activity.  You can follow us on Instagram​, Facebook, and Letterboxd to see what we've been up to, or reach out to us via email at gfc.unitedworkers@gmail.com.

Thank you for your support; we'll see you at the movies!