More than 140 union workers at Caesars Southern Indiana Hotel & Casino have commenced a strike. Teamsters Local 89, leading the effort, attributes the strike to the casino’s failure to propose a fair contract aligned with what they call the property’s record-breaking profits.
Avral Thompson, President of Local 89, stated, “We’re going to hold management accountable for their greed and blatant disrespect. It’s time for the people who run this casino to recognize the workers who make their profits possible. We’ll do whatever it takes to win what our members deserve.”
The casino, owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI), reported over $240 million in revenue last year, placing it among the top-performing casinos in the state. Workers are seeking contracts that include retirement benefits and compensation consistent with their contributions to the property.
Heather Emily, a cage cashier at Caesars Southern Indiana, remarked, “None of us wanted to strike, but management forced our hand. All we’re asking for is the ability to support our families and retire with dignity. This property makes more than enough money to do right by us.”
Despite extensive negotiations, Caesars has not agreed to employee proposals concerning retirement and other significant economic matters. Teamsters General Secretary-Treasurer Fred Zuckerman commented, “By forcing our members on strike, this company made a serious miscalculation. The Teamsters won’t back down. Our members are united, and we won’t stop until they get what they’ve earned. This strike is the direct result of corporate greed and indifference.”
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, established in 1903, represents 1.3 million workers across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico.
For more information, the public can visit Teamster.org or follow them on social media platforms X and Facebook.
