Caesars Southern Indiana Casino workers start strike
Over 140 casino employees have begun strike action to demand a new contract agreement.
US.- More than 140 workers at Caesars Southern Indiana Hotel & Casino have gone on strike. After months of negotiations, employees say the venue, operated by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI), has refused to offer improved contract terms.
Workers represented by Teamsters Local 89 voted by a 98 per cent margin to authorise strike action. The union said the casino operator continues to reject reasonable proposals on retirement and other issues.
Avral Thompson, president of Local 89, said: “We’re going to hold management accountable for their greed and blatant disrespect. It’s time for the people who run this casino to recognize the workers who make their profits possible. We’ll do whatever it takes to win what our members deserve.”
Teamsters general secretary-treasurer Fred Zuckerman added: “By forcing our members on strike, this company made a serious miscalculation. The Teamsters won’t back down. Our members are united, and we won’t stop until they get what they’ve earned. This strike is the direct result of corporate greed and indifference.”
The union added: “Caesars Southern Indiana raked in more than $240m in revenue last year, ranking among the most profitable casinos in the state. Workers are demanding a fair contract with retirement benefits and pay that reflects their essential contributions to the property’s success.”
