Dodgers Stadium Tour Guides Vote to Unionize Amid Security Concerns and Low Wages
In a surprising turn of events, tour guides at the iconic Dodgers Stadium have voted to unionize, with 18 in favor and 12 against during a National Labor Relations Board election. The decision comes as a response to security concerns and low wages that have plagued the group for some time.
The tour guides, responsible for leading a variety of tours at the stadium, including special tours dedicated to baseball legends like Jackie Robinson and Fernando Valenzuela, have expressed worries about the lack of security screenings for tour groups. This issue was brought to light after a guest ran off from a tour and hid in the stadium, prompting fears among the guides.
Additionally, the group is seeking raises as they currently receive L.A. City minimum wage, which is $16.78 an hour for tour guides and $18 an hour for tour leads. The unionization effort aims to address not only wage concerns but also security issues, last-minute shift cancellations, and premium pay for foreign-language tours, particularly Japanese-language tours that have seen a significant increase since the arrival of star player Shohei Ohtani.
With the Dodgers leading Major League Baseball in overall attendance, the demand for stadium tours is at an all-time high. The tour guides hope that by unionizing, they can secure better wages, improved working conditions, and a stronger voice in the workplace.
As the Dodgers continue to draw in new fans and break attendance records, the tour guides at Dodgers Stadium are taking a stand for their rights and demanding fair treatment in their roles as ambassadors of the historic venue.