Zoo Workers
Deserve Better.
Nearly 200 Teamsters Local 727 members — the animal care specialists, maintenance employees, craftsworkers, groundskeepers, custodians, patrol officers, aides and seasonal employees who make Brookfield Zoo Chicago world-class — are on ULP strike.
Our Core Demands
Teamsters Local 727 members are not asking for anything extraordinary. They are asking for what every working family in the Chicago area deserves.
Safe Staffing Levels
Adequate staffing protects the animals, the visitors, and the workers who show up every single day.
Union Healthcare
Our members have earned the right to retain their union-negotiated healthcare coverage. That is non-negotiable.
Good-Faith Bargaining
Zoo management must come to the table honestly — no scare tactics, no misinformation, no stalling.
Fair Wages
Chicagoland workers deserve wages that reflect the actual cost of living — not comparisons to Alabama or West Virginia.
"Our members at Brookfield Zoo are the reason it's a world class institution. Demanding the Zoo bargain in good faith, retain Union healthcare, have safe staffing levels, and be given fair raises isn't greed — refusing to give those things in exchange for inflated management salaries and buy-outs is…."
Brookfield Zoo Obstructs Animal Care
May 5, 2026 — Latest Statement
Teamsters Local 727 filed an emergency complaint in federal court seeking injunctive relief against the Chicago Zoological Society. The Union alleges that CZS deactivated the electronic accounts and databases of animal care specialists — systems critical for veterinary appointments, prescription renewals, and animal health monitoring.
"Brookfield Zoo management should be ashamed of their petty behavior in locking employees out of vital electronic systems that are used to keep animals safe and properly cared for," said John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 727.
About Teamsters Local 727
Teamsters Local 727 represents nearly 10,000 hardworking men and women throughout the Chicago area across a wide range of industries. Nearly 200 members are currently on ULP strike at Brookfield Zoo Chicago.
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.
Visit teamsterslocal727.orgKey Facts
- ULP Strike effective May 4, 2026 at 5:00 AM
- Nearly 200 members on the picket line
- Workers demand fair wages for Chicagoland cost of living
- Union healthcare and safe staffing are core demands
Chicago, Illinois — Where the cost of living demands fair wages
In the News
Chicago's major news outlets are covering the Brookfield Zoo strike. Read the full stories below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the Teamsters Local 727 strike at Brookfield Zoo Chicago.
Wall of Solidarity
Leave a message of support for the workers on the picket line. Every word of solidarity matters.
Add Your Voice
Show the workers they have community support.
Stand With the Workers.
Spread the word. Share this page. Support Teamsters Local 727 members fighting for a fair contract at Brookfield Zoo Chicago.