Heldrich Committee Takes Next Step Toward First Contract

September 18, 2008: The newly elected union negotiating committee at the Heldrich Hotel in New Brunswick came to the Newark union hall on Thursday to begin preparing to negotiate their first union contract.

Economic issues like wages, pensions and healthcare are essential issues in every union contract negotiation, especially in today’s troubled economy. But the bargaining team also discussed the ways Heldrich workers can use the union to guarantee both respect and dignity and health and safety on the job, to protect immigrant rights, and to ensure job security through seniority and other contract provisions. Committee members discussed the idea of power, and what it will take to build the power needed to win a great contract at the negotiating table. They practiced negotiating strategies, and came away prepared to take this struggle to the next step!

Committee members were also able to meet union and community leaders who came out to offer advice and support: Many thanks to members of the Union of Rutgers Administrators, AFT, including Nat Bender, Executive Vice President; Permelia Toney-Boss, Chairperson of AFSCME NJ Women’s Committee; and members from the New Brunswick community group of New Labor.

The Heldrich Negotiating Committee is:

Belia Pineda, Room Attendant; Florencia Garcia, Houseman; Emerita Veras, Room Attendant; Holly Cocho, Banquets Captain; Oscar Sandoval, Banquets Server; Chanelle Decaro, Concierge; Ramarra Middleton, Reservations; Shannon Prichet, Cook; Hector Trossi, Steward; Kelli Seawright, Cashier; Lindsay Hamilton, Server