CNN reports that a last-minute, 10,000-worker strike was averted yesterday when talks between the Culinary Union and Caesars Entertainment led to a tentative deal. Tensions had been running high after weeks of fruitless negotiations, but 20 straight hours of meetings eventually resulted in a new five-year contract that will now be subject to a ratification vote by union members. The deal will prevent a strike at nine casinos owned by Caesars Entertainment, and leaves other casino operators under pressure to reach agreements with the union before Friday morning. The conflict has arisen over demands by union members for improved wages and benefits, and marks the largest strike threat in the hospitality industry in US history. Despite this difficulty, the union has noted some progress in the most recent negotiations. Shows of solidarity and collective bargaining have been on the rise this year, with US unions winning large gains in recent talks. After agreeing to large wage increases with General Motors, Ford and Stellantis, the United Auto Workers union went on to secure two deals that totaled raises up to 30% with cost-of-living adjustments. The union coalition fought for a 21% raise over a four-year contract with Kieser Permanente and the Teamsters union reached a deal with UPS that included an hourly wage increase of $7.50 for 340,000 members. Meanwhile, unions at three Detroit casinos have been on strike since October 17, 2021, and hospitality unions representing 15,000 workers have gone on strike in Los Angeles since July. SAG-AFTRA union, which represents 160,000 actors, has been on strike against the major studios and streaming services for nearly four months. The strikes emphasize the recent emphasis on collective bargaining and workplace rights.
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