Sky River Casino workers stage first public protest for union recognition
Around 100 casino workers near me staged a protest at Sky River Casino this week. The demonstration, led by UNITE HERE Local 49, marked the union's first public action in front of customers since the venue opened in 2022. The dispute centres on the casino's refusal to recognize the union as the workers' official representative.
The protest took place on Tuesday, with Local 49 President Aamir Deen at the forefront. Workers chanted and held signs demanding formal recognition, though pay demands were not part of the action. Deen warned that further escalation could follow if Sky River continued to resist.
The casino's owner, Wilton Rancheria, has repeatedly called for a secret ballot election before recognizing the union. Cammeron Hodson, president of the Wilton Rancheria Gaming Authority, restated this position during the dispute. But Local 49 argues that a vote would only delay a process already stretched out for years.
The union claims recognition is guaranteed under a 2017 agreement. Wilton Rancheria, however, has opposed unionization at its properties, including Sky River, since the casino's launch. Legal challenges and anti-union campaigns have been part of its strategy to block Local 49's efforts.
The protest signals growing frustration among workers over the lack of formal recognition. Sky River maintains its stance on a secret ballot, while Local 49 insists the casino must honor the earlier agreement. The deadlock leaves the next steps uncertain for both sides.
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