Unite Here Local 23: Empowering Hospitality Workers For A Better Future
In the dynamic and often challenging landscape of the hospitality industry, a powerful force stands dedicated to championing the rights and improving the lives of its workers: Unite Here Local 23. This vibrant union serves as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change, ensuring that the hardworking individuals who form the backbone of our hotels, airports, and food service establishments receive fair wages, essential benefits, and the respect they deserve.
More than just a labor organization, Unite Here Local 23 is a comprehensive movement committed to transforming the hospitality sector into one that truly values its people. From securing vital health benefits and robust pensions to advocating for social justice and political change, Local 23 demonstrates an unwavering commitment to its 25,000 members across the United States and Canada, fostering a community where every voice is heard and every worker has the opportunity to thrive.
Table of Contents
- The Core Mission of Unite Here Local 23: A Movement for Dignity
- A Diverse Membership, A United Front: Who Local 23 Represents
- Winning for Workers: Contract Negotiations and Victories
- Comprehensive Benefits: Health, Security, and Beyond
- A Voice for Justice: Advocacy and Social Impact
- Organizing for Growth: Expanding the Union's Reach
- Staying Connected: Communication and Member Resources
- Joining the Movement: How to Get Involved with Unite Here Local 23
The Core Mission of Unite Here Local 23: A Movement for Dignity
At its heart, Unite Here Local 23 is driven by a singular, powerful objective: to transform the lives of hospitality workers. This mission goes beyond mere representation; it is about fostering a movement of people who are deeply committed to ensuring that every job in the hospitality industry is safe, respected, and provides enough income to live on. With a formidable membership of 25,000 dedicated individuals, Local 23 stands as a testament to collective power and shared purpose. These workers are not just employees; they are active participants in improving their own lives, strengthening their communities, and enhancing their workplaces. The union's philosophy is rooted in the belief that a fair day's work deserves a fair day's pay, coupled with conditions that uphold human dignity and provide a pathway to a secure future. Through tireless advocacy, strategic negotiations, and unwavering solidarity, Unite Here Local 23 works to dismantle systemic inequalities and build a more equitable industry for all.
A Diverse Membership, A United Front: Who Local 23 Represents
The strength of Unite Here Local 23 lies in the incredible diversity of its membership and the expansive reach of its representation. This union is a mosaic of dedicated individuals working across various sectors of the hospitality industry, united by common goals of fairness and respect. From the bustling corridors of airports to the quiet elegance of museums, Local 23 members are the essential workers who keep our world moving and our experiences memorable. This broad spectrum of representation ensures that the union's impact is felt far and wide, touching countless lives and communities.
From Airports to Amtrak: The Breadth of Representation
Unite Here Local 23 proudly represents a vast array of hospitality professionals. In major hubs like New York City, the union's presence is particularly strong within airport concessions and inflight services, ensuring that the thousands of workers who facilitate travel receive just compensation and benefits. Beyond the skies, Local 23 extends its protective umbrella to hundreds of onboard services workers on Amtrak trains. These dedicated individuals will directly benefit from the largest investment in passenger rail in U.S. history, a testament to the union's foresight and advocacy for its members' long-term prosperity. Furthermore, the union's reach encompasses food service workers at universities and museums, hotel staff, and parking attendants, demonstrating its commitment to improving conditions across the entire hospitality ecosystem.
Geographic Reach and Community Impact
While headquartered at 275 7th Ave, 16th Fl, in New York, NY, the influence of Unite Here Local 23 stretches far beyond the city limits. Its members are active in a multitude of states and cities, including Georgia, Mississippi, Charlotte, Nashville, Washington D.C., and Boise, among others. This widespread presence allows Local 23 to address local challenges with tailored solutions while contributing to a larger national movement for worker justice. The union's quarterly chapter meetings, held in various locations, serve as vital forums for members to connect, discuss issues pertinent to their specific areas, and strategize for future campaigns. This localized engagement, combined with a unified national vision, empowers communities and ensures that the union's advocacy is both impactful and relevant to the diverse needs of its members.
Winning for Workers: Contract Negotiations and Victories
The true measure of a union's effectiveness lies in its ability to secure tangible improvements for its members. Unite Here Local 23 has an impressive track record of doing just that, consistently achieving significant victories through robust contract negotiations and, when necessary, decisive collective action. These wins directly translate into better lives for thousands of hospitality workers, providing them with greater financial security and peace of mind.
A shining example of this success can be seen in the recent triumph of Delaware North workers. Through the diligent efforts of Unite Here Local 23, these workers successfully won a substantial raise and, crucially, a pension plan. This achievement underscores the union's commitment to not only improving immediate wages but also ensuring long-term financial stability for its members, providing a dignified retirement after years of dedicated service.
Further solidifying its impact, over 1,300 members of Local 23 recently ratified a new four-year contract. The highlights of this agreement are significant, once again featuring the inclusion of a pension and more affordable benefits, demonstrating a consistent focus on comprehensive member welfare. These contracts are not merely documents; they are living agreements that reflect the collective power of workers standing together, demanding and achieving better terms for their labor.
The union's readiness to take decisive action was powerfully demonstrated when 100% of Local 23 members employed by Delaware North working at the Austin Airport voted to authorize a strike. This unanimous vote, taken in anticipation of a critical October 1st deadline if an agreement wasn't reached, sent a clear message: the workers were united and prepared to fight for their rights. Such strong authorization is a potent tool in negotiations, often leading to favorable outcomes without the need for an actual strike, by showing the employer the unwavering solidarity and resolve of the workforce. These victories are a testament to the strategic prowess and unwavering commitment of Unite Here Local 23 in advocating for its members.
Comprehensive Benefits: Health, Security, and Beyond
One of the most compelling reasons for hospitality workers to join Unite Here Local 23 is the comprehensive suite of benefits secured through union contracts. In an era where affordable healthcare is increasingly elusive, the union prioritizes the well-being of its members by ensuring access to high-quality, accessible health benefits. This commitment extends beyond just medical care, encompassing a broader vision of security and stability for every worker and their family.
The majority of Unite Here Local 23 members receive their health benefits through the dedicated Unite Here Health Fund. The mission of this fund is clear and vital: to provide health benefits that are both high quality and affordable. This means members can access necessary medical care, prescription drugs, and other health services without facing prohibitive costs that could otherwise devastate their finances. The specific coverage plans are detailed in each member's Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), allowing for transparency and clarity regarding their benefits.
Beyond health insurance, the union's focus on securing pensions, as seen in the Delaware North contract, highlights its dedication to members' long-term financial security. A pension provides a crucial safety net for retirement, ensuring that workers can enjoy their later years with dignity and without undue financial stress. These benefits, which are often difficult to obtain individually, become accessible and robust through the collective bargaining power of Unite Here Local 23. The union also provides resources like the Sirius grievance demonstration site, offering members a clear pathway to address workplace issues and ensure their contractual rights are upheld, further solidifying their job security and peace of mind.
A Voice for Justice: Advocacy and Social Impact
Unite Here Local 23 is not merely a union focused on wages and benefits; it is a powerful advocate for broader social justice. Recognizing that workers' rights are inextricably linked to human rights, Local 23 actively engages with progressive movements and champions causes that extend far beyond the workplace. This commitment to a more equitable society demonstrates the union's holistic approach to improving lives, both within and outside the hospitality industry.
Championing Immigrant and LGBTQ+ Rights
A cornerstone of Unite Here's advocacy, including Local 23, has historically been the fight for immigrant workers' rights. For over a century, immigrant workers have been at the very center of the union's efforts to end poverty and transform lives. This deep-rooted commitment continues today, with Local 23 collaborating with partners in the progressive movement to ensure that immigrant workers receive fair treatment, protection, and opportunities. The union recognizes the immense contributions of immigrant communities and actively works to dismantle barriers they face. Notably, Ethiopian immigrants and Amharic speakers are identified as important leaders within the union, highlighting its inclusive and diverse leadership. Furthermore, Local 23 is a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, understanding that true justice means advocating for all marginalized communities and ensuring that every individual is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their identity.
Food Justice, Sustainability, and Political Action
Beyond specific demographic rights, Unite Here Local 23 also extends its advocacy to crucial environmental and economic issues. The union actively joins with food justice and sustainability organizations on "real food real jobs" campaigns, particularly in Washington D.C. These initiatives aim to promote sustainable food systems that benefit both workers and the environment, ensuring fair labor practices within the food supply chain. This demonstrates a forward-thinking approach, connecting labor rights with broader societal well-being. Furthermore, Local 23 understands the critical role of political engagement in achieving its goals. The union supports TIP (Together in Power), Unite Here's voluntary political fund. Unlike membership dues, TIP contributions are specifically used to support political campaigns, allowing the union to run campaigns and help elect officials who champion worker rights and progressive policies. This strategic political involvement ensures that the voices of hospitality workers are heard in legislative chambers, leading to policies that foster a more just and equitable society for all.
Organizing for Growth: Expanding the Union's Reach
Unite Here Local 23 is a dynamic and expanding organization, constantly striving to bring the benefits of union membership to more hospitality workers. The union understands that its power and influence grow with its membership, enabling it to negotiate stronger contracts and advocate more effectively for systemic change. This commitment to growth is evident in its continuous organizing efforts, which have seen remarkable success in recent years.
The union recently celebrated its largest year of organizing growth ever, a testament to its strategic approach and the increasing desire among workers for collective representation. On October 19th, in a powerful display of solidarity, Unite Here members joined together for justice in 40 cities across North America. This monumental event included active participation from six Unite Here Local 23 chapter cities, showcasing the union's widespread engagement and its ability to mobilize members on a large scale. This coordinated effort not only brought new members into the fold but also sent a clear message to employers and policymakers about the growing strength and unity of hospitality workers.
These organizing drives are meticulously planned, focusing on empowering workers to understand their rights and the collective power they hold. By reaching out to unrepresented workers in hotels, airports, and food service establishments, Unite Here Local 23 offers a pathway to better wages, benefits, and working conditions. The union provides resources and support for those looking to make changes at their jobs, demonstrating that collective action is the most effective way to achieve meaningful improvements. This ongoing commitment to organizing ensures that the movement for dignity and respect in the hospitality industry continues to expand, reaching more workers and transforming more lives.
Staying Connected: Communication and Member Resources
Effective communication and accessible resources are vital for any robust organization, and Unite Here Local 23 excels in keeping its members informed and empowered. The union leverages various channels to ensure that every member has the information and support they need, from general queries to specific grievance procedures.
For general inquiries about Local 23, members and interested parties can easily reach out via email, providing a direct line for communication. The union also maintains a strong digital presence, including an active Instagram account (@uniteherel23), where updates, news, and member stories are shared, fostering a sense of community and solidarity. Recognizing the need for immediate updates, Local 23 offers a text alert sign-up, allowing members to receive important notifications directly to their mobile phones. This system ensures that critical information, such as bargaining updates or event announcements, reaches members promptly.
Regular engagement is fostered through Unite Here Local 23 quarterly chapter meetings. These gatherings are essential for members to stay abreast of union activities, discuss local issues, and participate in democratic decision-making processes. Furthermore, the union provides specialized resources like the Sirius grievance demonstration site, a platform designed to help members understand and navigate the grievance process, ensuring their rights under the Collective Bargaining Agreement are protected. While some content, such as specific internal documents or sensitive information, is password-protected to ensure member privacy and security, the union strives for transparency in its operations and financial reporting, covering basic info, financials, spending, members/dues, and leaders/salaries for Local 23 in New York, NY. For any further questions or if a specific guide for a chapter, city, or state is needed, members are encouraged to email local23@unitehere.org or call the worker assistance line, ensuring no query goes unanswered.
Joining the Movement: How to Get Involved with Unite Here Local 23
For hospitality workers seeking to improve their working conditions, secure better wages, and gain access to comprehensive benefits, joining Unite Here Local 23 represents a powerful and transformative step. The union actively encourages individuals who are ready to make a change at their job to become part of its growing movement. Becoming a member means gaining a collective voice, backed by 25,000 strong, dedicated to fighting for dignity and respect in the workplace.
If you are currently employed at one of the many locations represented by Unite Here Local 23, or if you are interested in organizing your workplace, the union provides clear pathways to get involved. By clicking on the designated links on their official platforms or reaching out directly, prospective members can learn more about the process of joining and the myriad benefits that come with union membership. This includes access to affordable healthcare through the Unite Here Health Fund, secure pensions, fair wages, and a supportive community of fellow workers.
The decision to join a union is an investment in your future and the future of your colleagues. It's about building power together to ensure that jobs are safe, respected, and provide enough to live on. Unite Here Local 23 is ready to welcome new members into its ranks, offering guidance and support every step of the way. If you are a hospitality worker who believes in the power of collective action and is committed to improving your life, your community, and your workplace, then connecting with Unite Here Local 23 is your next crucial step towards a brighter, more secure tomorrow. One union, one Unite Here! Your strength is in unity.
Conclusion
Unite Here Local 23 stands as a formidable and essential force within the hospitality industry, embodying the power of collective action and unwavering dedication to its members. From securing life-changing contracts with pensions and affordable healthcare to championing immigrant and LGBTQ+ rights, the union consistently demonstrates its commitment to improving lives and fostering a more equitable society. Its diverse membership, expansive geographic reach, and robust organizing efforts underscore its growing influence and the vital role it plays in ensuring dignity, respect, and fair compensation for hospitality workers across North America. Unite Here Local 23 is more than just a labor organization; it is a movement built on solidarity, justice, and the shared vision of a better future for all.
Are you a hospitality worker looking to make a real difference in your workplace and secure your future? Explore the possibilities with Unite Here Local 23. Visit their website, connect with them on social media, or reach out directly to learn how you can join this powerful movement. Your voice matters, and together, we can build a stronger, more just hospitality industry. Share this article to spread awareness about the incredible work of Unite Here Local 23 and empower more workers to seek the benefits of union membership!
UNITE HERE Local 23, Grand Hyatt San Antonio and Hyatt Regency San
Gallery – UNITE HERE Local 23
UNITE HERE! Local 23 | UNITE HERE Local 23 represents over 25,000
