Local 986 News

Union Welcomes Proactive Discussions with SLS Management; Strike Could Resume if SLS Continues to Disregard Valet Attendants’ Federally Protected Rights

(LAS VEGAS) – Today, valet parking attendants at SLS Hotel and Casino, along with Teamsters Local 986, are temporarily ending the unfair labor practice strike launched Wednesday at SLS Hotel and Casino. The strike could resume at any moment should SLS management continue to disregard the National Labor Relations Act and refuse to allow its 50 valet parking attendants to exercise their federally protected rights.

“SLS management has said they are open to working with any union, and we hope they stay true to their word. Teamsters Local 986 is ready and willing to speak with the company about the valet attendants’ concerns. The valet attendants have approached Teamsters Local 986 seeking union representation, and want to be able to form their union without intimidation from the company,” said Chris Griswold, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 986.

The unfair labor practice strike was launched over multiple violations by SLS aimed at preventing its valet parking attendants from exercising their right to form a union. Management has committed several unfair labor practices, including interrogating workers who support the union, threatening to outsource their jobs, threatening to reduce their pay and benefits and terminating three workers for supporting the organizing campaign.
 
“I am out here today on the strike line because we need a strong union at SLS,” said Sergio Cruz, a valet attendant. “Ever since we first went public expressing our desire to form our union, management has threatened valet parking with outsourcing and threatened us with the loss of benefits and wages.”

“We will not stop speaking up until our voice is heard and we can form our union,” said Chris Dubrowsky, a valet attendant. “I know that SLS management has intimidated my co-workers and they are afraid, but I am not afraid to stand here on their behalf and tell the truth about what is happening at this hotel.”

The workers are united and strong. They have submitted a petition requesting their employer to be neutral during the organizing process, but SLS management continues to create obstacles instead of working with the employees, as they have for other SLS workers.
 
Other unions supported the picket line and workers from across Las Vegas came out to show their support. The workers have the support and backing of Culinary Union Local 226, which represents many workers at SLS.