Dodgers Stadium Tour Guides Vote to Unionize
In a historic move, tour guides at the iconic Dodgers Stadium have voted to unionize, marking a significant shift in the way the nearly 62-year-old stadium operates. The decision comes as the Dodgers welcome star player Shohei Ohtani for their upcoming season, attracting a new wave of fans to Vin Scully Ave.
During a National Labor Relations Board election, 18 tour guides voted in favor of unionizing, while 12 voted against. Pending NLRB certification, a group of nearly 40 tour guides, tour leads, and a plant data collector will join IATSE B-192, a Local that represents tour guides at other popular attractions in Hollywood.
The unionization drive was fueled by concerns over security, as tour guides expressed worries about the lack of proper screenings for tour groups, especially with the recent influx of patrons. Additionally, the group is seeking raises, as current wages are at L.A. City minimum levels.
The union contract aims to address security issues, boost wages, implement policies on shift cancellations, and provide premium pay for foreign-language tours. With the demand for tours at an all-time high, the tour guides are hopeful that unionizing will give them a voice and ensure fair treatment in the workplace.
As the Dodgers continue to draw record attendance numbers, the unionized tour guides are looking forward to a future where they can work with dignity and have their voices heard. The move to unionize represents a significant step towards better working conditions and fair compensation for the dedicated tour guides at Dodgers Stadium.