Hope Pordy (she/her)

ALT On a black background. In top left corner. A white figure with its right arm upraised. Next to it. In white text: SAG-AFTRA. Below. In yellow text: We also thank our union siblings — the workers that power this industry — for the sacrifices they have made while supporting our strike and that of the Writers Guild of America. We stand together in solidarity and will be there for you when you need us. Thank you all for your dedication, your commitment and your solidarity throughout this strike. It is because of YOU that these improvements became possible. In solidarity and gratitude,. In white text in the bottom right corner: 4/4. Across the bottom. In black text on a yellow background: Your TV/Theatrical Negotiating Committee.

ALT We, the Scoopers of the Ben and Jerry’s Burlington Vermont Scoop Shop, excitedly and enthusiastically write to inform you of our intent to exercise our right to organize a union with the backing of Workers United. Our goal in this action is to create a better-working and equal partnership between our community and yours. Conjoining the two will generate a sustainable and fair collaboration in which all Ben and Jerry’s employees and affiliates have the chance to advocate for and maintain their rights. As scoopers, cakers, TTTs, shift managers, and catering leads, we have all seen the positive impact of community within our scoop shop. The support and comradery this store has cultivated are rare and unique. Collectively, we have come to embody Ben and Jerry’s slogan of “peace, love, and ice cream.” We are taught from the beginning of our employment that equality and justice are integral rights of ours as people.

ALT But what happens when Vermont’s Finest are continuously left out of these conversations? These are the same concerns and injustices that directly afflict us. When will the activism and social mission our company empower come to reflect its own scoopers, the ones who work every day to keep their lines moooving? Despite record-breaking profits, incredible bounce-backs post-pandemic, and unwavering smiles, our staff is exploited within our work environment. Workers need a voice on issues that affect us. Forming a union will ensure that present and future scoopers have irrefutable rights. To this end, we want to acknowledge the efforts made by current management. The work you have done has not gone unnoticed and provides us hope for future cooperation where we can collaborate as equals. As a herd, we wear our Ben and Jerry’s hats proudly, serving customers with the highest quality possible, not unlike the ice cream we all enjoy.

ALT The act of forming a union is one that comes from a place of sustainability and preservation. Let's find a Ben and Jerry’s model that serves all. Thus, we are asking that you sign the Fair Election Principles (attached) and recognize our right to unionize.

ALT The letter has 25 signatures and includes a copy of the Fair Election Principles, which lay out a code of conduct for corporations during union elections.