Embassy Suites workers in Pioneer Square reach ‘tentative’ agreement with Hilton

Workers at the Embassy Suites by Hilton hotel in Pioneer Square have ended their strike.

Hilton reached a “tentative labor agreement” with UNITE HERE Local 8, according to a statement from Hilton.

“This agreement reflects a collaborative outcome and our commitment to our valued Team Members,” a Hilton spokesperson told KIRO Newsradio via email. “We look forward to welcoming our Team Members back to work and continuing to deliver exceptional hospitality to our guests.”

After 85 days, the strike became the longest hotel strike in Washington history.

According to The Seattle Times, housekeepers at the hotel will be the highest-paid union housekeepers in Washington, with starting pay rising to $31.03 per hour.

Mayor, King County executive join striking workers at Embassy Suites

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson and King County Executive Girmay Zahilay joined striking workers at the hotel on Labor Day.

“This Labor Day, I’m proud to stand with UNITE HERE Local 8 members as they fight for better wages, quality health care, and a better future for their families,” Zahilay said in a statement. “Working people are the backbone of our region, and they deserve to have their voices heard and their work valued. I’m here today to hear their experiences and stand with them.”

Workers sought higher wages, year-round health care coverage, and pre-pandemic staffing levels. During the World Cup, Embassy Suites rented the Cityscape Penthouse for up to $1,843 a night, according to a news release from UNITE HERE Local 8.

Employees also demanded the hotel notify them when U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents or other Department of Homeland Security personnel are on property — a request management previously rejected, Hotel Dive reported.

The new contract with Hilton details an agreement on year-round health care coverage, workload protections, and better rights for immigrant workers, The Seattle Times reported.

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