Edgewater hotel workers picket

The workers have authorized a strike as they continue to fight for a fair contract

SEATTLE, WA (July 2, 2025) — Signs in hand, hotel workers organized with UNITE HERE Local 8 picketed the Edgewater Hotel in Seattle on Tuesday. The workers have been trying to negotiate a new contract since last summer, per the union, fighting for raises on par with those at other union hotels and against short-staffing and workload increases.

In March, the workers voted to terminate their previous contract, opening up the possibility of a strike in the coming months. And in May, they voted to authorize a strike, signally their determination to win a contract that justly compensates them and secures functional working conditions.

Workers have been sharing why they voted to authorize a strike, raising issues with pay, retirement benefits, and more.

“I voted yes to strike because we have great staff at the front desk that work incredibly hard and we are asking for respect,” said Justine, a front desk supervisor. “We don’t have enough support from our management at the hotel and we don’t get a fair livable wage.”

Those sentiments are echoed by coworkers.

“Everyone wants a little raise, because everything is expensive,” said Juan Carlos, who has worked at the Edgewater for almost eight years. “I can’t survive with the paycheck there.”

The ability to retire with dignity is also a major concern for workers who voted yes on the strike authorization.

“I’ve been working here for eight years,” said Roberto. “I voted yes because I want a better pension for a better retirement.”

While low pay and a lack of respect from management plague the hospitality industry, hotel workers have been fighting back. In November, workers at hotels in SeaTac won contracts with significant wage increases and improvements to working conditions after striking twice.

The union is sharing updates on the on-going contract fight on its Facebook page. Supporters can donate to the UNITE HERE Local 8 strike fund in case Edgewater hotel workers or other UNITE HERE Local 8 members engage in a work stoppage.