The Culinary Union, the largest union in Nevada, representing approximately 60,000 workers in the state’s entertainment and hospitality sectors, has announced a 48-hour strike at Virgin Las Vegas. The strike aims to improve working conditions for the 700 hospitality workers at the venue.
Historic strike at Virgin Las Vegas
This strike is a historic moment as it marks the first time the Culinary and Bartenders Union has called for a strike at Virgin Las Vegas. The strike is set to begin at 5 AM on Friday, May 10, and will continue until 4:59 AM on Sunday, May 12.
Ongoing negotiations
The union had organized a main table negotiation with Virgin Las Vegas on Tuesday. However, as of now, there is no indication that the discussions have yielded positive results. During the strike, the union urges the community and customers to support the workers by not patronizing or crossing the picket lines.
Fight for better working conditions
The strike coincides with the workers’ expectations for a new 5-year union contract. The Culinary Union aims to secure better working conditions for the venue’s employees. If the strike proceeds as planned, it will impact all areas of the venue’s operations, including food and beverage, housekeeping, and restaurants. Unionized restaurants at Virgin Las Vegas include The Bar at Commons Club, Juice Bar, Casa Calavera, Funny Library Coffee Shop, The Shag Room, and The Kitchen at Commons Club.
Union leadership speaks out
Ted Pappageorge, the Culinary Union’s secretary-treasurer, addressed the expired contract for workers at Virgin Las Vegas. He noted that the contract expired on June 1, 2023, and nearly a year later, employees still do not have a new contract. Pappageorge encouraged community members and customers to support the strike and avoid crossing the picket line.
“Virgin Las Vegas employees deserve fair wages and better job security, and they are ready to strike to achieve this goal. As Virgin Las Vegas workers go on strike on Friday, May 10th, the Culinary Union has their back every step of the way, and we will win,” said Pappageorge.
Pappageorge highlighted the union’s nearly nine decades of efforts to ensure the well-being and growth of workers across Nevada. He vowed that the union would continue to support its members by promoting fair wages, job security, better health care, and other benefits for hospitality workers.
In conclusion, the Culinary Union’s call for a 48-hour strike at Virgin Las Vegas underscores the ongoing struggle for fair wages and better working conditions. The outcome of this historic strike will likely have significant implications for the hospitality industry in Nevada.
