It’s often said, “Closed mouths don’t get fed,” and this adage resonates profoundly in the recent success story of the MGM Grand Detroit workers. Their vocal and steadfast stance for better compensation and working conditions has borne fruit in a historic labor agreement. After initially rejecting a contract deal that was accepted by their counterparts in two other Detroit casinos, these workers’ persistence and outspokenness have paved the way for a groundbreaking five-year agreement, significantly enhancing their employment terms.
The five-year contract encompasses significant benefits for the 1,700 workers represented. It features the highest wage increases in the history of MGM Grand Detroit. According to a detailed press release from the Detroit Casino Council (DCC), employees will receive an immediate average pay raise of 18%, along with a bonus. Additionally, the agreement guarantees no increase in health care costs for employees, reductions in workload, extensive job protections, and a clause addressing new technology.
Upon ratification of the contract, workers are set to receive an immediate raise of $3 per hour, amounting to $5 per hour in total over the contract’s duration.
Alicia Weaver, a guest room attendant with 24 years of service at MGM Grand Detroit and a member of Unite Here Local 24, passionately shared her perspective. “Both my son and I have been on strike together, so for me, the fight to protect our health care and win better wages was always about something bigger for my family and the next generation,” she said. Weaver’s statement encapsulates the broader implications of this struggle, highlighting its significance beyond immediate economic gains.
This agreement follows similar settlements reached at Hollywood Casino at Greektown and MotorCity Casino-Hotel, where unionized employees ratified new contracts on November 19 after a 34-day strike. The strike, involving workers from all three Detroit casino properties, commenced on October 17, primarily to safeguard health care benefits and secure wages commensurate with the rising cost of living.
Matt Buckley, President and COO of MGM Resorts International’s Midwest Group, expressed relief and optimism. “We’re glad our DCC-represented employees voted tonight to ratify the 64-month contract and end the strike, allowing us to immediately resume full and normal operations at MGM Grand Detroit,” he stated. Buckley’s statement reflects a forward-looking approach to restoring normalcy and continuing MGM Grand Detroit’s renowned entertainment experiences.
The contract includes various benefits: an immediate $3 per hour raise, a total $5 per hour raise over its lifespan, no additional costs or changes to employee health plans, reduced workloads, and advanced notice for technology-related job impacts, including necessary training and compensation for displaced workers. Additionally, the contract introduces a bonus option, a new 401(k) match up to $1,000, and a paid Juneteenth holiday.
The DCC, comprising Unite Here Local 24, UAW, Teamsters Local 1038, Operating Engineers Local 324, and the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters, represents a diverse workforce. Its members span various areas, including food and beverage, housekeeping, retail, gaming, and engineering.
The strike’s impact on the casinos’ revenue was noticeable, with a decline in earnings for all three Detroit properties in October compared to the previous year. This agreement, however, heralds a new chapter in labor relations, emphasizing the power of collective bargaining and the importance of equitable working conditions.
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