Strike by Philadelphia city workers persists on its 5th day; union and officials reconvene for discussions
In the heart of Philadelphia, contract negotiations between the city officials and American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees District Council 33 (AFSCME DC33) have reached a critical juncture, with the union on strike since June 30, 2025. The union represents approximately 9,000 city employees, including sanitation workers, city mechanics, 911 dispatchers, and school crossing guards, who provide essential services such as water services, public health, and street repairs.
The primary point of contention in these negotiations, according to DC33 leader Greg Boulware, is the wage increase. The union has requested a 5% annual wage increase over the next three years, amounting to a total increase of approximately 15%. In contrast, Mayor Cherelle Parker's administration has countered with 2.7%, 3% and 3% wage increases over the same period.
Boulware stated that many DC33 members struggle to afford basic necessities like their water bill and plane tickets, despite their vital roles in maintaining the city's infrastructure and services. He also mentioned that the average DC33 member earns approximately $46,000 per year, which is $2,000 less than the city's "living wage" as calculated by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Living Wage Calculator.
The ongoing strike has disrupted essential services, causing issues such as uncollected trash piling up across neighborhoods. Union members and city residents voiced their support for the workers' demands at Philadelphia's Fourth of July parade.
Despite the challenges, both parties have resumed negotiations multiple times, with Mayor Parker expressing her intention to negotiate "a fair and fiscally responsible contract." As of July 6, 2025, negotiations are ongoing but stalled over wage increases, with the union insisting on larger annual raises and the city maintaining a more modest offer. Both sides continue to engage in talks in hopes of ending the strike soon.
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[1] Philadelphia Inquirer, "Philadelphia union workers go on strike over contract dispute," June 30, 2025. [2] CBS Philly, "Philadelphia Union Workers Strike Over Contract Dispute," June 30, 2025. [3] NBC Philadelphia, "Philadelphia Union Workers Strike Over Contract Dispute," June 30, 2025. [4] Washington Post, "Philadelphia union workers strike over contract dispute," June 30, 2025.
Despite the ongoing negotiations between the city officials and American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees District Council 33 (AFSCME DC33) in Philadelphia, the dispute over wage increases remains a general-news talking point and a significant part of local politics. The union's demand for a 15% wage increase over three years has generated widespread support among its members and city residents, who have expressed their solidarity during events like the Fourth of July parade.
