Twenty-second International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities

Abstract

This paper shares findings from a content analysis of intersectional solidarity expressed in art museum unions’ Instagram accounts, examining how art museum unions are aligning their labor struggles towards intersectional liberatory goals. This study examines the evolving nature of work, workplace activism, and solidarity within the context of art museums, building awareness and understanding of a contemporary social movement that affects many arts and humanities workers directly, and also contributes to the scholarly literature documenting 21st century unionization and collective action in the face of the intersecting pandemics of racism and COVID-19. Given the homogenous racial demographics of art museums, this presentation also implements a Critical Whiteness Studies lens to more fully understand the interplay of solidarity and interest convergence in these statements. Additionally, because the creative industries are indicative of larger economic trends, this study also has bearings on the evolving nature of work, workplace activism, and solidarity writ large.