A recent strike of 10,000 U.S. hotel workers has commenced in various cities across the country after contract negotiations with major hotel operators Marriott International, Hilton Worldwide, and Hyatt Hotels stalled. The strike, led by the Unite Here union, has impacted workers at 24 hotels in popular destinations like San Francisco, San Diego, Honolulu, Boston, Seattle, and Greenwich.
The strike has been initiated due to disagreements over wages and pandemic-era job cuts. Hotel workers, who are already feeling stretched thin, are demanding fair wages and better working conditions. For example, housekeepers in Baltimore are fighting for a wage increase from $16.20 to $20 per hour, while those in Boston are seeking a $10 per hour raise over the next four years.
According to the union, hotel management is frequently assigning three staff members to do the job of four, leading to undue stress and a focus on speed rather than quality service. Workers are being expected to deliver five-star service with reduced staffing, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
While Hilton and Hyatt have expressed their commitment to reaching a fair agreement with the union, they have also stated that they have implemented contingency plans to minimize disruptions caused by the strike. However, Marriott did not respond to requests for comments on the ongoing situation.
The Unite Here union, representing over 40,000 hotel workers across 20 cities with expiring contracts, is adamant about not accepting a ‘new normal’ where hotel companies profit at the expense of workers’ well-being. Negotiations for new four-year contracts have been ongoing since May, with approximately 15,000 workers authorizing strikes in anticipation of better terms.
As the strike continues, the union is encouraging travelers to support the workers by canceling their hotel stays if the employees are on strike. Additionally, travelers are urged to demand penalty-free refunds and show solidarity with the workers’ demands for fair wages and improved working conditions. Previous successes in Los Angeles and Detroit after prolonged strikes showcase the power of collective action in achieving positive outcomes for workers in the hospitality industry.
The ongoing hotel workers’ strike highlights the challenges faced by employees in the industry and the need for fair compensation and better working conditions. As negotiations continue between the union and major hotel operators, it is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize the well-being of workers who are the backbone of the hospitality sector.