Over the weekend, concession workers at Oracle Park (where the San Francisco Giants play) voted overwhelming to strike on the grounds that they have not been fairly compensated or protected during the coronavirus pandemic.
The workers, represented by Unite Here Local 2, had approximately 86% of concession workers turn out to vote with 96.7% approving a strike. The workers have argued that their requests for a pay raise have gone unanswered over the past three years. Further, the workers claim that they have not been afforded better protections during the coronavirus pandemic, given their customer facing jobs and potential exposure to the virus. For instance, some workers claim they routinely interact with customers that do not wear masks or appropriate barriers (such as plexiglass) are not installed at registers. In addition, the workers claim that they are only eligible for health insurance if they work ten events a month. However, many workers have apparently fallen an event or two short lately, which means many are left without any health insurance coverage.
Notably, these workers are not directly employed by the Giants but rather hired by Bon Appetit. However, the Giants apparently dictate the relationship between Bon Appetit and the workers. (For instance, the Giants could instruct subcontractors, such as Bon Appetit, to raise their pay rates…something that the Giants have not done.)
Whether the workers actually strike remains to be seen. However, as some readers might be reading through this post, a strike might be underway. Stay tuned.
For additional information: https://www.sfgate.com/giants/article/giants-oracle-park-concessions-workers-strike-vote-16429170.php
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