Thousands of hotel workers in eight US cities went on strike over the Labor Day weekend to demand better pay and working conditions. The UNITE HERE union called for the strike after contract negotiations with Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott failed to reach an agreement. Workers cited the lack of restoration of standard services like daily housekeeping and room service, as well as inadequate wages that made it difficult for them to support their families.
Gwen Mills, the International President of UNITE HERE, emphasized that hotel workers were experiencing painful workloads and struggling to afford living in the cities they served. The union authorized strikes in four additional cities, signaling a widespread movement in the hospitality industry.
Hyatt responded by expressing disappointment in the strike, highlighting their history of cooperation with unions and commitment to fair contracts. Hilton and Marriott did not immediately comment on the situation. The strike occurred during what is typically a busy travel period in the US, with AAA reporting a 9% increase in bookings compared to the previous year.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipated a record 17 million people to travel over the Labor Day weekend, despite the strike potentially impacting hotel operations. The outcome of the strike and its impact on the hospitality industry will be closely watched as negotiations continue between workers and hotel chains.
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