Northeastern University Food Service Workers
Vote to Unionize
Chartwells workers overwhelmingly vote YES to join Boston’s Local 26
BOSTON- In the largest campus food service unionization in recent history, 400 Northeastern University dining hall workers overwhelmingly voted in favor of joining Boston’s Local 26.
Rallying with hundreds of students, Chartwells workers spoke about injustice they faced in the dining halls and kitchens last month. The workers conveyed the urgent need for a union as harassment and unfair treatment have created a hostile work environment. Last night’s vote was 299 to 44 in favor of joining Boston’s Local 26.
“I wanted this union to end the mistreatment and injustice we all face while working here,” said Angela Bello “It has been a long fight and we faced pressure from our bosses not to unionize but we came together and demanded fairness. All we want is to be treated with respect.”
Boston’s Local 26 represents 6,000 hospitality industry workers in the greater Boston area. Members include workers at hotels, restaurants, university food services, Boston Convention Centers, Fenway Park, Logan International Airport, and other companies throughout the city.
“Our city and community thrive when the people who live and work here are appreciated and valued,” said Brian Lang, President of Boston’s Local 26. “Along with the thousands of workers in our union, the Chartwells workers and Northeastern University share our commitment to create dignity and respect at the workplace with secure, well-paid jobs.”
The workers were organized with the help of a student group, Huskies Organizing With Labor (HOWL), a broad coalition of 24 campus groups. The students recently demanded that the University and Chartwells let the workers choose whether to unionize in an environment free of pressure and intimidation.
“The outpouring of support from Northeastern students, faculty, and community members helped encourage the workers to move forward,” said Lang. “As we work together in the future with Northeastern and our new union members, we will eliminate the abuse and disrespect that these men and women were subject to.”
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