Cannabis Cultivation Workers in Illinois Ratify Contract with Teamsters After 30-Day Strike 

Workers at an Ascend Wellness cultivation facility in Barry, Illinois last week ended their 30-day strike after ratifying their first contract with Teamsters Local 916. The strike was the longest in the history of the cannabis industry.  

In a statement, Cory Hill, an Ascend cultivator and member of Local 916, said the workers went on strike because they know the value of their work and knew they “deserved better.” 

“This contract proves that by refusing to give up, workers can win the respect, job security, and opportunities we deserve.” — Hill in a press release 

The contract includes higher wages, lower healthcare costs, protection against unjust discipline, improved policies for paid time off, and a new process for settling disputes. 

JP Fyans, president of Local 916, said in a statement that the “victory belongs to the men and women at Ascend who stood together and refused to accept anything less than a fair contract.” 

“Our members showed tremendous courage and determination throughout this fight,” Fyans said. “Their solidarity compelled Ascend to deliver on pay, benefits, and protection of union rights.” 

Kyle Bollinger, vice president of Local 916, called the workers’ strike “extraordinary.” 

“For 30 days, they stood shoulder to shoulder and their courage forced Ascend to bargain a fair contract,” Bollinger said in a press release. “This strike sends a clear message to cannabis companies that workers who drive their profits deserve to be treated with respect.”