Workers at Indiana’s Blue Chip Casino join Teamsters

• Teamsters continues its expansion in the casino vertical after workers at a premier Indiana casino voted to join
• Nearly two dozen slot attendants and dual rates chose to join Teamsters Local 135
• Executives at Teamsters speak about the importance of the latest accomplishment

Two dozen workers at a popular Indiana casino unionized for better work benefits and higher pay.

That’s the case for a group of 22 slot attendants and dual rates at Blue Chip Casino Hotel and Spa in Michigan City.

Blue Chip Casino workers to unlock a range of benefits

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters confirmed Monday that the workers voted overwhelmingly to join Teamsters Local 135.

By joining Teamsters, the slot attendants and dual rates will be able to secure higher pay and improved work benefits.

At the same time, they can expect improved working conditions, among other things.

"This marks the first organizing win at Boyd Gaming, one of the largestcasinoentertainment companies in the U.S.," a press release confirms.

Teamsters was founded more than 100 years ago in 1903 and it represents more than 1.3 million workers across the United States, Canada, as well as Puerto Rico.

Within the gambling industry alone, Teamsters represents close to 6,000 hardworking people at casinos and casino hotels.

"Nothing could ever break our solidarity"

Candace Todd, a slot attendant at Blue Chip Casino Hotel and Spa and a member of Teamsters Local 135, spoke about the importance of unionizing.

She admitted that this courageous move will make the workers’ voices heard.

"The company hired a union buster, held meetings, and tried to intimidate us, but they didn't stand a chance. Nothing could ever break our solidarity," Todd added.

Dustin Roach, Teamsters Local 135’s President, was similarly excited about the slot attendants and dual rates’ decision to join Teamsters.

"This group demonstrated their unity and determination from the very start of this campaign," he said.

Moreover, Roach pointed out: "Now it's time for the company to meet us at the bargaining table without delay. We are going to negotiate a fair first contract and hold this company accountable every step of the way."

Tommy Blitsch,the Director of the Teamsters Convention, Trade Show and Casino Division, acknowledged that Teamsters continues to grow its presence in the casino vertical.

He explained that workers are no longer worried about organizing in any state or company.

Finally, Blitsch said that the success of the workers at this popular Indiana casino will send a message to other casinos across the country.

Image credit: Pixabay.com