In a historic move, thousands of Detroit casino workers went on strike on Tuesday as they pressed for improved wages and benefits. This strike is a significant development in Motor City, as negotiations between the unions and the three major casinos – MGM Grand, Motor City, and Hollywood Casino at Greektown – failed to produce a new labor agreement by the noon deadline.
The Striking Casino Workers:
The Detroit Casino Council, representing 3,700 casino workers across five different unions, has been at the forefront of these negotiations. Their primary demand is for better wages and benefits, aiming to address issues that have persisted since early September. While specific wage figures remain undisclosed due to the wide variety of job types within the casinos and associated hotels, the unions emphasize that substantial raises are essential to keep up with the relentless march of inflation.
On the benefits front, the unions express their opposition to casino management’s proposal to shift a more significant burden of healthcare costs onto the workers. Johanna Lams, a table games dealer at MGM Grand Detroit and a local UAW chairperson, voiced her concerns, stating, “The company, in my opinion, is not coming back with anything that is even close to fair. You’ve got people here working at MGM who don’t even make enough to have apartments. They are sleeping in their cars.”
Stalled Negotiations:
The strike came after an extension of a three-year agreement, initially set to expire at 11:59 p.m. on Monday but was pushed to noon on Tuesday. In 2020, the casino council agreed to minimal wage increases to support the casinos during the COVID-19 pandemic and related government-mandated shutdowns.
Impact on Casino Operations:
Despite the strike, all three casinos remained open. Picket lines outside and around the casinos were active, with workers voicing their concerns. The situation led to operational challenges, with some supervisors working extended hours to maintain casino activities.
Public Reaction:
Many casino patrons appeared unfazed by the strike, while some expressed empathy for the workers’ cause. It’s evident that the strike has garnered attention and divided public opinion.
Casino’s Response:
MGM Grand Detroit has stated its intention to remain open throughout the strike, promising to take “whatever lawful action is necessary” to continue serving customers.
Unions’ Call for Support:
The striking unions are urging the public not to visit the casinos during the strike. They seek solidarity from the community in honoring the picket lines, asking people not to patronize the establishments during this time.
Conclusion:
The Detroit casino workers’ strike marks a significant moment in the labor history of the city. As negotiations continue, the unions remain resolute in their quest for better wages and benefits. The situation is ongoing, and the impact on the casinos and their patrons remains to be seen.
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