Laborers at Chukchansi casino in California demand increased pay in a stand they label as "struggle for respect"
The Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino in California is currently facing a significant disruption, as union workers represented by Unite Here! Local 19 initiated a strike on July 12, 2025. The strike, which has been ongoing for over a week, involves hospitality workers such as bartenders, bell persons, line cooks, and valet drivers.
The labor dispute revolves around negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement, with key points including paid time off, sick leave, family leave, bereavement leave, and the handling of tips. The union members argue that the casino's offer, which includes a 2% wage increase, also includes the removal of free lunches and medical benefits they previously enjoyed. The tribe, however, asserts that it has not received a counteroffer from the union and that the union's picketing violates the Tribe's Labor Relations Ordinance and public assembly permitting rules.
In a federal court, a judge declined to block the strike, stating the tribe did not show why federal court jurisdiction applies to the dispute. The tribe sought assistance from local law enforcement to enforce its tribal ordinances, but the Madera County sheriff declined without a court order. A hearing is scheduled for July 31, 2025, to further address these issues.
The strike has led to operational disruptions and financial losses for the casino, according to the tribe's economic development authority. Union members continue visible demonstrations demanding fair contracts, drawing attention on social media and public platforms.
Suzet Tawney, a union employee at the casino, emphasizes the importance of the casino's healthcare benefits to its employees. She states that she would be financially incapable without these benefits. The proposed negotiations may force union employees to seek employment with less favorable conditions, as jobs in the area are reportedly part-time, offering unstable hours and wages below the minimum.
Marco Rosas, a news source for the report, working for KSEE/KGPE-TV, reported that the proposed negotiations also included the removal of free medical benefits for workers. Union employees find this offer to be insulting, as jobs in the area are said to provide fewer benefits compared to the casino.
Union workers at the Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino concluded a three-day strike on Monday, but the dispute remains unresolved. The negotiations involve the Picayune Rancheria of Chukchansi, the tribal gaming organization that runs the casino. The outcome of the ongoing negotiations could have a significant impact on the lives and livelihoods of the union employees.
- The casino-culture at the Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino, heavily reliant on benefits such as free lunches and medical coverage, is at stake with the ongoing strike, as union workers contest the casino's proposed offer.
- The union-led disruption at the Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino, focusing on casino-games, extends beyond the three-day strike, as negotiations continue over issues like paid time off, healthcare benefits, and wage increases.
