Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders win right to unionize

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 23 Oct, 22:44 · Archive

The Dallas Cowboys have officially recognized the newly-formed Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Association (DCCA) as the squad's collective bargaining representative on Friday. The recognition came after 'meaningful discussion' between the Cowboys organization and the DCCA, according to a joint news release. The milestone decision paves the way for direct contractual negotiations regarding salaries, benefits and working conditions for members of the dance troupe.

The unionization follows years of public scrutiny over cheerleader compensation. In 2018, cheerleader Erica Wilkins filed a federal fair wage lawsuit against the Cowboys, claiming she averaged $15,000 during her seasons with the team and made less money than the team's male mascot. Netflix's America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders documentary series has also shed light on their fight for fair pay. During the show's second season, squad members threatened a walkout during contract negotiations and ultimately secured a 400 per cent pay raise, with the hourly rate for some members increasing from $15 per hour in the 2024 season to $75 per hour.

The cheerleaders, established in 1961, are among the most recognizable dance groups in the world. Many squad members hold full-time jobs in addition to their work with the team. The Cowboys are the NFL's most valuable franchise, valued at $17 billion according to Forbes.

How it is being reported

• Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders unionize after years of fighting for fair payTeam elects to voluntarily recognize union Squad members have advocated for better wages The Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders have unionized after years of advocating for fair pay and better wages. The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Association (DCCA) was voluntarily recognized by the Cowboys as the collective bargaining representative for the cheerleading squad, according to a Friday news release. The recognition came after “meaningful discussion” between the Cowboys organization and the DCCA, and the parties are set to begin collective bargaining. Continue reading...Guardian Sport · 23 Oct, 22:29
• Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders win right to unionize in battle for higher pay after hit Netflix seriesThe NFL team officially recognized the newly-formed Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Association (DCCA) as the squad's collective bargaining representative on Friday.Daily Mail Sport · 23 Oct, 21:54

In this story: Dallas Cowboys · Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Association · Erica Wilkins · Netflix · America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders

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