Black Friday marks two weeks on the picket line for Virgin Hotels Las Vegas workers

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – The Culinary Union is currently experiencing its longest strike in over two decades, with no clear resolution in sight between Virgin Hotels Las Vegas and their workers, represented by the union. As Black Friday marks the conclusion of two weeks of striking, the situation remains tense.

Over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, hundreds of striking workers and union members maintained 24/7 picket lines at every entrance of the hotel, making their demands known loud and clear. “Respect the workers! Don’t be a scab! Don’t be a loser! Don’t play or eat at Virgin Hotels!” was a common chant heard through megaphones as they rallied for their rights.

The workers are advocating for a new five-year union contract. Pamela Holmes, who has dedicated 15 years to the hotel, has been actively participating in the strike since the very first day. “We were out here for F1. You see all of those people come in, a lot of people drive by and give us that honk and support us,” Holmes shared, reflecting on the community’s response to their cause.

Holmes added that it feels unusual to now spend every day outside the hotel, even bringing her granddaughter to her makeshift workplace on the picket line. The emotional toll of this situation is evident among the workers.

On Friday, Congresswoman Dina Titus joined the striking workers in solidarity. “You should only have to have one job to make it for your family and you should have a fair contract,” Titus stated during her visit to the picket line.

Among those striking was Jesse Cole, a cook at the hotel who works three jobs to support his family. Despite his hectic schedule, he has been committed to participating in the strike every day, including Thanksgiving. “There’s times where I think I am at risk of losing a job because the three jobs and the scheduling can’t combine,” Cole explained, shedding light on the hardship faced by many workers.

The contract between Virgin Hotels and the Culinary Union expired in the summer of 2023, leaving employees to work without a contract since then. The union argues that, unlike every other hotel in Las Vegas that has secured contract agreements, Virgin is relying on temporary workers to keep operations running while union workers are steadfastly committed to the picket line.

“As long as it takes for us to get our contract,” Cole emphasized. His determination matches that of Holmes, who firmly stated, “If we need to close this place to get that contract, I am ready for that.”

As the strike continues, it highlights not only the challenges faced by these dedicated workers but also their unwavering resolve to achieve fair treatment and secure a contract that will provide them with the stability they deserve.

The atmosphere outside Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is one of strength and unity among the workers, who are determined to stand their ground until their voices are heard and their demands addressed.