Thousands of hotel and hospitality workers in Los Angeles, Orange County, and the Phoenix metropolitan area are on the verge of a potential strike, prompting a peaceful sit-in at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to prepare for the possibility.
Members of Unite Here Local 11 are demanding affordable housing for airport workers, highlighting the nationwide crisis of housing affordability for the working class. The recent sit-in at LAX resulted in the arrest of over 200 workers, including local officeholders, engaging in civil disobedience to raise their voices.
The impending California hotel workers strike, authorized by 96% of voting members, could become the largest industry-wide strike in U.S. history. Representing 32,000 workers in various roles, including room attendants, cooks, dishwashers, front desk agents, and food service workers, the union is set to take action as early as July 4, as their contracts expire on June 30.
The key demands of the workers include a $5 hourly wage increase to keep up with inflation, improved family healthcare plans, fair pensions, the establishment of a hospitality workforce housing fund, and reasonable workloads.
The housing issue is crucial in light of two major upcoming sporting events in Los Angeles — the 2026 men’s soccer World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics. Past experiences have shown that these events have often led to the displacement of residents and the conversion of housing into luxury dwellings. UNITE HERE’s workforce housing fund aims to address these concerns, especially regarding the Olympic villages required to accommodate athletes.
With over 100 contracts up for negotiation, including renowned hotel chains like Hyatt, Hilton, Marriott, and others, valued at a staggering $142.29 billion, the workers’ voices carry significant weight.
If you have experienced workplace discrimination or other labor-related issues, we urge you to seek legal assistance from Labor Law Advocates in California. We specialize in defending workers’ rights and can provide the support you need in navigating legal challenges. Call for a free consultation.
