ROCHESTER, N.Y.–Genesee Co-op FCU said its workers have unanimously chosen to form a union with the Communications Workers of America (CWA), after the credit union said it earlier voluntarily recognized CWA as the representative of its employees.
“This is a historic step in Genesee Co-op FCU’s efforts to create a more just and equitable economy,” the credit union stated.
Genesee Co-op said it regularly collaborates with unions and other organizations, including through New York Community Equity Agenda, to advocate for a more just financial system.
“Prosperity for All is one of Genesee Co-op’s core values. Too often the economy is rigged to favor those who already have money and power,” said CEO Melissa Marquez. “Unions, like cooperatives and credit unions, are made of people coming together to work for economic justice.”
According to the credit union, employees, along with the CWA, approached Genesee Co-op in the fall of 2021 seeking to represent the employees of a “progressive and responsible credit union pursuing ‘high road’ labor practices.”
Supporting Worker Rights
The $35.1-million Genesee Co-op said it signed a card-check neutrality agreement effort because of the credit union’s commitment to support worker rights.
“We are incredibly proud to welcome Genesee Co-op credit union workers into our union family and take steps forward to a strong contract that improves their wages and working conditions. Organizing a union is no easy task, but these workers have come together with a determination to truly create a better workplace for all,” said John Pusloskie, president of CWA Local 1170. “The agreement by the credit union’s leaders to remain neutral and respect their employees’ right to organize sets a powerful example for other banks and credit unions to follow. Respecting union rights doesn’t just ensure fairness and decency for all workers, it improves the quality of services financial institutions can provide.”
Holding the Credit Union ‘Accountable’
Added Genesee Co-op FCU Loan Officer Nolan Noble, “I'm proud to serve the Rochester community and the people who are too often left out by the banking system. With a voice on the job, we can now make sure we’re holding Genesee Co-op accountable to its values of affordable, reliable services for those that need it most. Over the four years that I’ve worked at Genesee Co-op, the credit union has grown considerably, expanding our workforce and our membership. I’m proud of this growth and, with a union, we can ensure that it is sustainable and that workers like me have a say in the direction Genesee Co-op takes moving forward.”