More than 100 unionized workers at a popular hotel and casino resort in Indiana are on strike after failing to reach an agreement for better benefits.
Earlier this week, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, a union representing 1.3m workers across the United States, Canada as well as Puerto Rico, confirmed the strike.
Failed negotiations result in a strike
Per the latest announcement, more than 140 union workers at Caesars Southern Indiana Hotel and Casino are on strike, led by Teamsters Local 89.
According to the union, the popular land-based casino and hotel recorded $240m in revenue in 2024, making it one of the most profitable casinos in the state.
Yet, Caesars Southern Indiana "failed to offer a fair contract that matches the property's record-breaking profits," the Union explained in a press release.
The strike comes after months of intense negotiations. However, according to Teamsters Local 89, the venue continues to reject "reasonable proposals on retirement and other critical economic issues."
Teamsters' General Secretary-Treasurer, Fred Zuckerman, commented on the topic, revealing that the venue made a "serious miscalculation" by forcing unionized workers to go on strike.
"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," Zuckerman added.
Unionized workers are prepared to do "whatever it takes" to receive much-deserved benefits
Heather Emily, who holds the role of cage cashier at Caesars Southern Indiana, revealed that failed negotiations for improved benefits pushed the workers to strike.
"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," she added.
Avral Thompson, Teamsters Local 89's President, added that management of the hotel and casino resort will be called out for "their greed and blatant disrespect."
He added that the time has come for people who make the hotel and casino resort profitable to be recognized for their hard work and dedication.
Finally, Thompson explained that the striking workers are prepared to do "whatever it takes to win what our members deserve."
Caesars Southern Indiana opened its doors nearly three decades ago in 1998.
The property is currently owned and operated by EBCI Holdings, a company of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
