MGM Grand Detroit have also expressed their excitement at the arrival of a new deal and the prospect of returning to work after 47 days. In a press release by the DCC on Saturday, the workers shared thoughts and comments on the new development.
“I am happy to announce that MGM employees ratified their contract tonight. I am impressed by how all the unions and members worked together to win an excellent contract. I’m looking forward to going back to work,” said Patrick Nichols, a dealer at MGM Grand Detroit and member of UAW Local 7777.
Other workers who also had families that were staff of the casino highlighted what it meant for them as a family with co-workers.
“Both my son and I have been on strike together, so for me the fight to protect our healthcare and win better wages was always about something bigger for my family and the next generation,” Alicia Weaver, a guest room attendant for 24 years at MGM Grand Detroit and a member of UNITE HERE Local 24, said in the press release. “Together — with the rest of our MGM family who stood with us on that picket line in the rain and frigid temperatures — we made history, and I’m proud of what we accomplished by taking a stand together.”
Healthcare had been a talking point among picketing workers. Staff were quick to express satisfaction in the improvement they will now enjoy.
“Since welcoming my son into the world, securing my family’s health care benefits was the most important thing to me,” said Gabriel Robert Hernandez, a valet at MGM Grand Detroit and member of Teamsters Local 1038. “We sacrificed a lot during the pandemic, but we fought for and ultimately won a contract that secures our health care and provides significantly improved wages.”
All these workers have now resumed work at the time of this publication.
