Ahead of the World Cup, Embassy Suites Workers Vote to Strike!
Hotel workers at Embassy Suites in downtown Seattle have voted 94% yes to authorize a strike! Embassy Suites sits next to Lumen Field, where the World Cup games will be played. Local 8 members at the hotel are fighting for a new union contract that includes year-round healthcare coverage, protections from ICE, fair raises, and a return to pre-pandemic staffing levels. “The market right now is bad for the whole country,” says Stiliano Hibroj, a banquet houseman. “Housing, bills, groceries – everything costs more. The raises the hotel is offering are ridiculous.” Management has also rejected workers’ ask to be notified when the hotel knows DHS is on property. “As a brown woman,” says front desk agent Dom Kaur, “I know ICE does not care whether you are a U.S. citizen. It is wrong for our bosses to sit there and say they cannot do anything about it.” A strike could now begin at any time. If you are a community member who wants to support Embassy Suites workers, please sign our pledge and join the Strike Support Team!
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Compass Food Service Workers at Microsoft Win Union and First Contract!
900 Compass food service workers at Microsoft recently won their union and first contract, growing Local 8’s presence and negotiating power in tech in Puget Sound.
Susana, Cook at Compass at Microsoft says, “Now I’ll be able to have my own place my own privacy and be able to sleep 8 hours, I’ll finally be able to look out for my own health and not worry about a huge bill coming in the mail.”
Workers won raises of at least $7 over the duration of the contract, employer-paid health care coverage with UNITE HERE Health, fair scheduling, and pension plan.
Big Victories for SeaTac Workers!
HMS Host workers at SeaTac settled an incredible contract with large wage increases for both tipped and non-tipped workers, improvements to healthcare and pension benefits, and credit card tips for Starbucks baristas and other counter service workers.
“As a father, I’ve had to consistently work two jobs to support my family. With the $7.75 raise we just won in this contract, I’ll be able to quit my second job and spend more time with my kid.” John Tidler, Cook
Welcoming New Members to Local 8
Workers at SSP at the Portland Airport won Union recognition in the summer of 2022. They are now beginning to negotiate their first contract! Congratulations to our newest members!