MGM Detroit Casino Workers End Strike After 47 Days

Article by : Erik Gibbs Dec 7, 2023

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After 47 days of striking, the Detroit Casino Council has voted to ratify an agreement with MGM Grand Detroit, leading to an immediate suspension of the strike.

Commencing on October 17, workers at MGM Grand Detroit, Hollywood Casino at Greektown, and MotorCity Casino initiated the strike to safeguard their healthcare benefits and address wage concerns that had not kept pace with the cost of living.

Notably, a resolution with MGM Grand Detroit has been reached just weeks after unionized casino workers secured agreements with the other two casinos on November 19, concluding a 34-day strike.

The agreement with MGM Grand Detroit marks a significant milestone, with workers achieving the most substantial wage increases ever negotiated in the history of the casino, as stated in a news release from the Detroit Casino Council.

Patrick Nichols, a dealer at MGM Grand Detroit and member of UAW Local 7777, expressed satisfaction over the ratification of the contract by MGM employees.

Nichols commended the collaborative efforts of all unions and members in securing an outstanding contract and eagerly anticipated returning to work.

Matt Buckley, President and COO, of Midwest Group, MGM Resorts International, conveyed the company’s satisfaction with the Detroit Casino Council (DCC)-represented employees voting to ratify the 64-month contract, thereby concluding the strike.

Buckley expressed eagerness to swiftly resume full and normal operations at MGM Grand Detroit and welcomed the team back, emphasizing the commitment to providing guests with the renowned entertainment experiences associated with MGM Grand Detroit.

Upon ratification, the agreement grants an immediate $3 per hour raise to 1,700 employees, constituting an average 18% pay increase. Over the five-year contract duration, total raises amounting to $5 per hour will be implemented.

Notably, the agreement includes provisions for no healthcare cost increases for employees, workload reductions, and various job protections.

Additionally, it introduces unprecedented technology protections, providing employees with options for upfront bonuses or bonuses within the second year of the contract, among other benefits.

Gabriel Robert Hernandez, a valet at MGM Grand Detroit and a member of Teamsters Local 1038, emphasized the paramount importance of securing his family’s health care benefits since the birth of his son.

Despite the sacrifices made during the pandemic, the collective effort resulted in the successful negotiation of a contract that not only safeguards health care but also brings about substantial improvements in wages.

Alicia Weaver, with 24 years of experience as a guest room attendant at MGM Grand Detroit and a member of UNITE HERE Local 24, echoed a similar sentiment.

Having experienced the strike alongside her son, the fight to protect health care and attain better wages was imbued with a broader significance—for both her family and the generations to come.

Collectively, alongside the broader MGM family who joined us on the picket line amidst rain and frigid temperatures, we have made history. The sense of pride is profound for what we have achieved by standing united in our cause.