Over 100 casino workers at Black Hawk Casino in Colorado – currently owned and operated by Bally’s Corporation – have elected to join Teamsters Local 455, representing the first time in state history casino workers have chosen to unionize.
"The workers at Black Hawk Casino came together to secure a stronger voice on the job, and they've made history in the process," Teamsters Director of Convention, Trade Show and Casino Division Tommy Blitsch said.
"This victory is an inspiring reminder to casino workers across Colorado and nationwide that when you stand together, you can win a better future with the Teamsters."
The 110 casino workers who joined Teamsters Local 455 include cooks, cashiers, bartenders, servers, housekeeping, maintenance technicians, slot attendants and slot technicians, who are seeking wage increases, improved benefits and safer working conditions.
Teamsters Local 455 Secretary-Treasurer Dean Modecker also spoke on the unionization, having said, "This is an important moment for workers in Colorado and the entire casino industry.
"Our brothers and sisters at Local 455 are excited to welcome the newest bargaining unit to our family. And we're ready to represent and protect them in the fight for a fair first contract."
Workers elected to join the union through a card-check process, while Teamsters currently represents nearly 6,000 casino and hotel personnel nationwide.
On August 3, a group of 22 slot attendants and dual rates at Blue Chip Casino Hotel & Spa voted in favor of joining Teamsters Local 135, representing the union’s “first organizing win” at a Boyd Gaming property.
Those who elected to join Teamsters Local 135 are advocating for higher pay, improved benefits and improved working conditions, having marched for union representation on June 23.
A group of 22 warehouse workers at The Sphere voted ‘overwhelmingly’ to join Teamsters Local 986 in August, attempting to secure higher wages, safer working conditions and ‘respect on the job’
