Distinguished Expert on Diversity and Race Relations Dr. Caprice Hollins Honors Hyatt Boycott at USRowing Convention
USRowing held their annual convention last week at the Grand Hyatt Seattle and Hyatt at Olive 8. On August 27, 2013, workers called for a boycott of their hotels, citing poor working conditions and a lack of respect. They have asked that customers not eat, sleep or meet at the Grand Hyatt Seattle or the Hyatt at Olive 8 until the owner Richard Hedreen agrees to a fair process for them to decide for themselves whether to have a union.
Dr. Caprice Hollins, noted speaker and facilitator of discussions of race relations, was invited to the conference but decided to stand with workers. Dr. Hollins had been slated to lead a presentation and training on cultural competence.
“In support of the boycott I will not be presenting at the upcoming Annual US Rowing Convention as originally planned,” Dr. Hollins said.
Dr. Hollins is a co-founder of Cultures Connecting, a firm whose mission is to provide culturally relevant professional development, keynotes and consulting services to individuals and organizations committed to excellence through equity and social justice. She has over 14 years of experience, including opening and directing the Department of Equity and Race Relations for Seattle Public Schools. You can learn more about her work at www.culturesconnecting.com.
On behalf of the hotel workers at the Grand Hyatt Seattle and the Hyatt at Olive 8, we thank Dr. Caprice Hollins and are grateful for her support!
Below you can read the letter sent by Dr. Hollins to Grand Hyatt Seattle and Hyatt at Olive 8 owner Richard Hedreen:
