Horseshoe Casino Indianapolis Workers Successfully Unionize Following Prolonged Strike
Workers at Horseshoe Casino Indianapolis Secure Union Representation
Employees at Horseshoe Casino Indianapolis have successfully formed a union, officially joining the Teamsters Local 135. This achievement marks a major win for the workforce after enduring several weeks of challenges and delays in their unionization journey.
Delays and Struggles During the Unionization Process
The casino’s staff of 200 was initially scheduled to vote on unionizing with the Teamsters on October 17. However, the process faced setbacks due to a historic 43-day federal government shutdown. Additionally, the casino’s operator, Caesars Entertainment, resisted involving an independent third-party auditor to oversee the union election. In response, casino workers at the Shelbyville property staged a strike to urge Caesars to recognize their union efforts.
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) eventually intervened to supervise and count the union vote. The outcome revealed that the majority favored joining the International Brotherhood of Teamsters.
Teamsters Local 135 Pledges Support and Improved Conditions
Teamsters Local 135, which represents around 12,000 workers across various industries including casinos, construction, freight, warehousing, and airlines, committed to advocating for better wages, fair tip pooling, and enhanced job security for their new casino members.
Employee Reactions to Caesars’ Opposition
The union victory was met with enthusiasm by the casino employees. Dakota Massman, a table games dealer, reflected on the strike as evidence of the collective power employees hold. He expressed disappointment at Caesars Entertainment’s efforts to block unionization but celebrated the ultimate success of the workers.
Local 135 President Dustin Roach criticized how Caesars managed the situation but applauded the workers’ determination. He promised to bring that same resolve into negotiations for their first collective bargaining agreement.
Tommy Blitsch, director of the Teamsters Convention, Trade Show, and Casino Division, praised the dedication of the Horseshoe Casino employees. He emphasized that the union’s stance was clear from the beginning: the strike would conclude only with Teamsters representation secured.
