Approximately 10,000 hotel workers in eight US cities have gone on strike over Labor Day weekend to demand better pay and conditions. The UNITE HERE union organized the strike after failed contract negotiations with Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott hotels. The workers are protesting cost-cutting measures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, which have not been reversed despite the hotels making record profits.
UNITE HERE International President Gwen Mills stated that workers are not earning enough to support their families, and many can no longer afford to live in the cities where they work. The union is calling for a return to standard services like daily housekeeping and room service, as well as fair wages to support the workers’ physical and financial well-being.
The strike has also been authorized in four other cities and could begin at any time. Hyatt expressed disappointment over the strike, citing a history of cooperation with unions and plans to minimize the impact on hotel operations. Hilton and Marriott did not immediately comment on the situation.
The Labor Day weekend is traditionally a busy travel period in the US, with an increase in bookings and an expected record number of travelers. The strike by hotel workers could potentially disrupt travel plans and hotel operations during this busy period.
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