Like this article? Keep independent journalism alive. Support HuffPost.
The Dallas Cowboys organization has agreed to recognize the unionization of its iconic cheerleading squad following years of rising media attention on the women’s pay and labor conditions.
The NFL team, which is the world’s most valuable sports team, estimated around $13 billion, confirmed its recognition of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Association (DCCA) in a statement shared Friday.
“The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are an esteemed part of the Cowboys organization, deeply respected for the talent and dedication they exhibit. They remain one of the most sought-after opportunities for talented dancers worldwide,” the statement read.
Some of the members have opened up about their battle with body-shaming, misogyny and unequal pay, dating back to the 1970s, as well as their longtime efforts to achieve higher pay and improved labor conditions.
The cheerleaders last year said they were given a 400% pay raise after being featured in the Netflix docuseries, “America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders,” which documented some of the women’s struggles.