Chicago State University Cafeteria Workers Strike
Source: Chicagoist
Cafeteria workers for Chicago State University began a strike Thursday after their employer, Thompson Hospitality, cancelled negotiations with their union. The cafeteria workers unionized earlier this year and have been in negotiations with Thompson since June. The contract between CSU and Thompson does not expire until June 2014, but officials told workers earlier this week the company submitted a 30-day notice to terminate the contract due to “unfulfilled financial obligations.” UNITE HERE Local 1, who represents the CSU cafeteria workers, filed unfair labor practice charges on Monday after Thompson cancelled several scheduled meetings.
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Chicago State University cafeteria workers to strike
December 5, 2012
Chicago State University cafeteria workers to strike
Unfair labor practice charges filed against company for not bargaining
Food service provider says it might terminate contract with CSU due to financial dispute
WHAT: A daylong strike by CSU cafeteria workers employed by Thompson Hospitality, protesting the company’s cancellation of negotiations. It is the first strike of university cafeteria workers in Chicago history.
WHO: Chicago State University cafeteria workers employed by Thompson Hospitality, joined by supporters such as members of UNITE HERE Local 1, students, professors, and community allies.
WHERE: Chicago State University, Student Union Building; 9501 S. King Drive
WHEN: Thursday, December 6th – Picketing begins at 6:00am. Picketing ends at 8:00pm.
WHY: Chicago State University cafeteria workers are prepared to strike this Thursday, launching the first strike by university cafeteria workers in Chicago history. Earlier this week, cafeteria workers represented by UNITE HERE Local 1 filed unfair labor practice charges against Thompson Hospitality for repeatedly cancelling negotiations.
Meanwhile, on Dec. 4th, a top official of Thompson Hospitality announced to University dining hall workers that it might stop providing food service in the New Year at CSU due to a financial dispute with CSU. The jobs of approximately 50 dining hall workers and the future of Thompson Hospitality at CSU now hang in the balance.
Earlier this year, dining hall workers unionized in an effort to bring stability and end poverty wages paid to food service employees at the University.
Tonight, at 5:00 PM at the Student Union Building cafeteria Chicago State University students, professors, and community will be meeting with University cafeteria workers for an emergency forum to discuss the crisis in the dining halls. Call Carly Karmel, 312-933-4045 for details.