Erik Van Rossum is UNITE HERE Local 8’s new Secretary Treasurer and Principal Officer

June 9, 2010

Erik Van Rossum was confirmed at Local 8’s general membership meeting as the new Principal Officer of UNITE HERE Local 8. Erik succeeds Rick Sawyer, who has accepted the position of UNITE HERE Northwest Director.

“I am excited to continue building a fighting union that challenges the disrespect, low wages, lack of benefits, and difficult working conditions that are too common in our industries,” Van Rossum said.

UNITE HERE Local 8’s top priority is organizing in the hotel and food service industries. “The corporations we deal with have continued to make money while workers suffer in this economy. It is time to reverse this trend and bring accountability to the hospitality industry in the Northwest. I am very thrilled to be part of this fight,” he added.

In addition, Rick Sawyer’s promotion to the newly created position of Northwest Director brings increased focus by our international union to the region, strengthening Local 8’s position entering the important upcoming contract and organizing campaigns in 2010 and 2011.