More than 140 employees at Caesars Southern Indiana Hotel & Casino have voted by a 98 percent margin to authorize a strike, signaling growing frustration over stalled contract negotiations.
Represented by Teamsters Local 89 and Operating Engineers Local 399, the workers say the vote shows dissatisfaction with management’s refusal to offer improved terms, particularly on retirement benefits and other key economic issues.
“Our members are united and ready to fight for the strongest possible agreement,” said Avral Thompson, President of Teamsters Local 89. “This vote sends a clear message — we will not back down. If management won’t negotiate in good faith, we’re prepared to take action.”
Caesars Southern Indiana is owned and operated by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) and reported revenue exceeding $240 million last year, placing it among the most profitable casinos in the state.
Workers argue that the financial success of the casino should be reflected in their contracts, particularly for those who have remained committed to the company for years.
“I’ve worked at Caesars for over seven years, and we deserve a contract that values our hard work and dedication,” said Sandra Ramirez, a slot attendant and member of Local 89. “No one wants to strike, but if management keeps disrespecting us at the bargaining table, we’re ready to demand what we’ve earned.”
The vote comes after months of negotiations that union leaders say have produced little progress. The unions accuse management of holding firm against proposals to improve retirement benefits and refusing to move on several other financial demands.
“At this point, the ball is entirely in management’s court,” said Fred Zuckerman, General Secretary-Treasurer of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. “If Caesars faces a strike, management will have no one to blame but themselves for the fallout. We stand ready to back our members every step of the way.”
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, founded in 1903, represents 1.3 million members across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. The outcome of this dispute could have implications beyond Southern Indiana, especially given the union’s commitment to protecting worker rights in the gaming and hospitality sectors.
Neither Caesars Southern Indiana nor EBCI has issued a public response regarding the vote or the ongoing contract talks.
