Sept 2 (VOA/GNA) – About 10,000 hotel workers began a multiday strike Sunday in several U.S. cities after contract talks with Marriott International, Hilton Worldwide and Hyatt Hotels stalled, the UNITE HERE union said.
The strike is affecting 25 hotels in eight cities, including Boston, San Francisco and Honolulu. Workers are demanding higher wages and a return to staffing levels seen before the COVID-19 pandemic.
The walkout coincides with a busy holiday weekend, as millions of Americans are expected to travel. AAA reports a 9% increase in domestic travel for Labor Day compared to last year.
Unionized housekeepers are calling for the restoration of daily room cleaning services at major hotel chains. They point to increased workloads, reduced hours and lower wages as major concerns.
The strike underscores broader frustrations among hotel workers who lost jobs during the pandemic and are now facing staffing shortages and changing travel trends.
About 15,000 workers have authorized strikes in 12 markets, with potential actions in Baltimore, New Haven, Oakland and Providence.
The union warns that strikes could start in these cities at any time.
Workers report being stretched thin, with three staff members handling the work of four. This has led to increased stress and lower-quality service.
“Since COVID, they’re expecting us to give five-star service with three-star staff,” a worker at Marriott’s Palace Hotel in San Francisco told the union.
In Baltimore, housekeepers are seeking a wage increase to $20 per hour from the current $16.20.
In Boston, where housekeepers earn $28 per hour, the union is pushing for a $10 per hour raise over the next four years.
Hilton and Hyatt have expressed their commitment to reaching a fair agreement with the union.
GNA/Credit: VOA