Labor strife lands at Plimoth Plantation

BOSTON (AP) — Workers at a Massachusetts living history museum that depicts 17th century life at the time of the Pilgrims are asking to be treated by 21st century standards.

About 70 unionized workers at Plimoth Plantation, including some of the educators and historical interpreters who dress in period costume, have been involved in a yearlong labor impasse with management. They are bringing their issues to the attention of the public in time for Thanksgiving, the museum's busiest day of the year, when 2,300 visitors come for a traditional holiday feast.

The members of the Society of Allied Museum Professionals union held informa- tional pickets outside the nonprofit's entrance over the weekend. On Tuesday, they plan to unveil a petition from supporters at Plymouth Rock.

The union and management have been negotiating a contract since December, when the union was certified. The union also represents some artisans, behind-the-scenes maintenance staff, and Native Americans who dress in historically accurate clothing at the museum's 17th century Wampanoag village.

"Management has waged a very intense anti-union campaign ever since we started organizing," said Kristi Schkade, a living history educator who dresses in period clothing, union secretary and a member of the negotiating team.