Casino strikers urge Detroit City Council to implement picket protections

Hundreds of striking casino workers packed the Detroit City Council’s auditorium Tuesday, urging council members to ensure health and safety protections for strikers.

Dubbed the “Detroit Strikers Bill of Rights,” the resolution would call for various strike protections, including the right to have sources of warmth, like heaters and bonfires, that are not confiscated or ticketed as temperatures drop; keeping vehicles 50 feet away from the public right of way to avoid picketers having to breathe exhaust; keeping barriers away from sidewalks that force pedestrians into the street; and allowing drivers to honk in support of the protest, despite the noise ordinance prohibiting shouting or whistling and loud noise.

More: Detroit casino workers go on strike as unions seek better wages, benefits

The proposal was referred to the Internal Operations Standing Committee and the council is expected to vote on it next Tuesday. The Detroit Casino Council, which represents 3,700 casino workers, has been seeking improved wages and benefits during negotiations with the casinos that started in September.

Several striking casino workers, during the public comment period, urged council members to pass the resolution. Last week, the city council passed a resolution supporting the workers’ right to strike. Terrell George, a member of Unite Here, a union which represents hospitality workers, asked council members for their support for the bill.

“We know our worth,” George said. “You will have that ability to stand tall with us and say enough is enough. Everybody, keep fighting.”

Jamil Johnson, a striking casino worker, said large metal barriers have blocked strikers from moving and hindered their public safety.

“The barriers prevent us from safely walking in the pedestrian crosswalk. We have to step into the street to step around, and I’m afraid of getting hit by a car. One of my coworkers was already hit,” Johnson said. “Thankfully, it was not serious and he’s OK. That’s why we’re asking you to consider the Strikers Bill of Rights.”

Free Press reporter JC Reindl contributed to this story.

Dana Afana is the Detroit city hall reporter for the Free Press. Contact Dana: dafana@freepress.com or 313-635-3491. Follow her on Twitter: @DanaAfana.