O'Hare Airport Workers Announce Strike Date
CHICAGO – O'Hare International Airport workers today announced they will strike on November 29 to avoid disrupting the Thanksgiving holiday travel rush.
The tweet from Service Employees International Union Local 1 officials describes the quest for higher wages.
O'Hare Airport workers vote to STRIKE on November 29th! #PovertyDoesntFly #FightFor15 pic.twitter.com/iVerPyrAM5
— SEIU Local 1 (@SEIULocal1) November 21, 2016
The workers are seeking union rights and a $15 per hour wage. They include baggage handlers, cabin cleaners, janitors, and wheelchair attendants.
About 500 workers committed to a strike after a vote Thursday. The workers involved have been trying to organize with the union's help. They work mainly for private contractors at the airport.
Last week, SEIU Local 1 President Tom Balanoff says they don't expect to shut down the airport but will create a disruption.
*Updated with strike date on 11/21/16