News

On May 8, a group of 30 workers, clergy, community leaders, and concerned citizens took arrest as an act of civil disobedience in support of the 10 worker-leaders fired during an organizing effort at Mardi Gras Casino in Hallandale Beach, and in support of the Florida Freedom Charter. The civil disobedience participants was joined by more than 500 confirmed supporters marching from BF James Park to the entrance of Mardi Gras Casino.

The rally took place a week after the National Labor Relations Board filed complaints against the casino operators claiming, among other things, that management “threatened to discharge employees if they engaged in union activities or protected concerted activities.” Further, the charges alleged that the operators of Mardi Gras Casino created the impression that employees were under surveillance and management implied promised benefits to employees who “refrained from engaging in union activities.”

The event was organized by UNITE HERE! Local 355, a hospitality union that represents 5,400 casino, stadium, airport, and hotel workers in South Florida. It is the first event under the banner of the Florida Freedom Charter, a mandate drafted by South Florida workers and community leaders dedicated to improving local communities from the ground up.

More information about the dismissals at:

http://www.miamiherald.com/2012/05/08/2790161/23-pro-union-protesters-arrested.html