Horseshoe Casino Workers Unionize After Lengthy Strike Victory
UPDATE: Workers at Horseshoe Casino Indianapolis have officially unionized, achieving a monumental victory after a prolonged strike and negotiations. This breakthrough comes after an arduous battle against Caesars Entertainment, which sought to delay the union vote.
The casino’s approximately 200 employees voted overwhelmingly to join Teamsters Local 135, marking a significant step for labor rights in the gaming industry. Originally scheduled for October 17, the vote was postponed due to the record 43-day government shutdown. Frustrated by the lack of progress, workers initiated a strike, applying pressure on Caesars to recognize their union.
The intervention of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) was pivotal in ensuring a fair vote. The majority of workers expressed their desire to join the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, a union that represents around 12,000 employees across various sectors including casinos, construction, and airlines.
Workers are hopeful about the future, as Teamsters Local 135 promises to advocate for improved wages, better tip pooling, and enhanced job security. Dakota Massman, a table games dealer at the casino, described the strike as a powerful reminder of workers’ collective strength, expressing relief at the outcome against Caesars’ resistance.
Local union president Dustin Roach condemned Caesars’ attempts to thwart the unionization efforts but praised the workers’ determination. He vowed to bring the same fighting spirit to the upcoming negotiations for the workers’ first contract.
The success at Horseshoe Casino Indianapolis serves as a rallying cry for labor movements across the country, showcasing the power of solidarity and perseverance. Tommy Blitsch, director of the Teamsters Convention, Trade Show, and Casino Division, noted that the workers’ resilience throughout the process has been tremendously inspiring, affirming that the union’s commitment to their cause was unwavering.
As this story develops, many will be watching closely for the outcome of negotiations and the impact of this unionization on labor movements nationwide. Workers at Horseshoe Casino Indianapolis have set a precedent that could echo throughout the industry, igniting conversations about workers’ rights and empowerment.
