News reports, official statements from UNITE HERE union or hotel operators

Over 4,000 Hotel Workers Strike Across US Amid Labor Day Contract Disputes

Sep 1, 2024, 01:23 PM

Thousands of hotel workers across the United States have initiated strikes following stalled contract negotiations with major hotel operators, including Marriott International, Hilton Worldwide, and Hyatt Hotels. The strikes, which began on Sunday, involve over 4,000 workers, including more than 1,100 in Boston and Greenwich, and are expected to spread to other cities such as San Francisco, Seattle, and Honolulu. The workers, represented by the UNITE HERE union, are demanding higher wages and the reversal of service and staffing cuts that were implemented during the pandemic. The strikes coincide with the Labor Day weekend, potentially affecting travel plans. In Boston, nearly 900 workers across four hotels have already formed picket lines. The union's ad campaign highlights workers' frustrations with having to apologize to guests for reduced services and amenities. The strike is planned to last three days.