“Union YES!” at the Evelyn Hotel – HTC Wins with 100% of the Vote

On August 24, the workers at the Evelyn Hotel, on 27th Street between 5th Avenue and Madison Avenue, voted unanimously to obtain the right to negotiate, and be represented by the Hotel Trades Council. The election was conducted by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

Here is the tally of votes:

NOTE: 39 ballots were cast, but one worker voting for HTC was so proud to do so that she marked the ballot with her initials, which caused it to be invalidated under NLRB rules.

After the ballots were counted, many of the workers, who stayed late for the results, poured out of the hotel and gathered with union organizers at nearby Madison Square Park to hug, jump up and down, and whoop and holler for joy at their victory.

“I’m thrilled that we are joining HTC and our new brothers and sisters in all the other union hotels in New York City!” said Room Attendant Luz Matos.

The Evelyn is part of the Triumph Hotels chain. As a result of today’s vote, the workers in six out of seven Triumph Hotels are represented by HTC.

Currently, Evelyn workers earn considerably lower pay than their counterparts in union hotels and most cannot afford to pay the large paycheck deductions for even individual coverage under the employer’s health plan. “We deserve to enjoy the same economic benefits that other unionized hotel workers in New York City have,” said Shift Supervisor Paul Cephas, voicing the feelings of all of his co-workers.

The employees also expect all the other vitally important rights contained in the Union’s Industry-Wide Agreement, including its grievance process and the full array of protections regarding: job security, health and safety, and dignity and respect on the job.

Assistant Director of Organizing Samantha Coughlin commented: “The workers at the Evelyn should be proud of their hard work. They are now one step closer to a great HTC union contract.”

Houseman Bobby Sugiarto said: “My Mom and my Aunt both work in HTC hotels, so I knew what everyone here was missing. I’m so happy that we finally get the chance to have the same here!”

After learning about the Evelyn workers’ 100% show of solidarity today, HTC President Peter Ward smiled with delight and had this to say: “Our members are very happy and proud to have the workers of the Evelyn Hotel come into our ranks with this unanimous election. This is a great way to join our Union!”

Stay tuned for updates about contract negotiations.