IRC workers ratify nationwide first contract

Collective bargaining agreement covers 700 workers across the U.S., including nearly 100 employees based in Seattle 

NEW YORK, NY (February 11, 2026) — Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU) members at 13 International Rescue Committee (IRC) offices ratified their first union contract this week, securing better wages, just cause protections, and permanent employment for nearly 700 workers who support refugees, immigrants and people in conflict zones. Nearly 100 workers in Seattle, who won voluntary recognition of their union in July 2025, are covered under this contract.

IRC workers help the world’s most vulnerable people access health care, education and economic opportunities, against a backdrop of global conflict. IRC workers provide a range of vital services helping displaced people settle and thrive in the United States, including English classes, legal services and case management. They also conduct research and perform logistical support to their programs on the ground in countries ranging from Ukraine to Sudan. With a union contract, workers are making strides towards their own economic opportunities and a dignified workplace.

“This contract means I don’t have to beg in order to be treated fairly,” said Grace Aguirre, crisis case manager at IRC’s Oakland office. “It means now I have policies in place at the worksite that I helped craft that are worker-centered, that are realistic expectations made by people who are actually doing the work. I can now show up to my job, which is to care for children and their families, knowing there is a contract and union taking care of me.”

Seatle IRC workers pose for a photo after winning voluntary recognition in 2025. Photo: OPEIU 8

Contract gains are significant. Per their union, IRC Workers Unite (IRCWU)/OPEIU, IRC workers won permanent employment for people previously deemed “limited-term staff,” as well as improved workplace safety standards and stronger recourse for excessive workloads.  They also secured recall rights for anyone who might be laid off in the future, the establishment of a “Labor Management Committee” that gives workers a stronger voice in their office, and a more robust training program to prepare them for the complex issues they address on the job.

“Through these contract wins, IRC workers are now on the path to earning what they deserve for their invaluable service to refugees, those living through war and all who believe in universal human dignity. This win is a testament to the organizing prowess and bargaining chops of the OPEIU members at IRC, and the wide-ranging gains unions can secure for nonprofit workers,” said Tyler Turner, OPEIU president.

The 13 unionized IRC offices span the U.S. from Seattle and Oakland, to Baltimore and New York City. The Dallas office was the first to unionize, winning recognition through an NLRB election in 2023. Now, close to half of IRC’s U.S.-based employees are now unionized with OPEIU. While workers are represented by different OPEIU locals, the contract covers workers nationwide.

IRC is a global nonprofit, with more that 17,000 employees in 40 countries. Successful organizing efforts in the U.S. follow previous union victories at IRC offices overseas, per OPEIU. Union workers in the U.S. hope their contract will inspire nonunion IRC workers across the country and world to organize.

“Winning our contract was an incredibly emotional experience,” said Jodi Camino, a school success caseworker in IRC’s Atlanta office. “Experiencing that win in community really reminded me that in addition to the contract articles that will make a really concrete difference in my financial security, working conditions and quality of life, our biggest win is we now have a voice, community and collective power.”