Hard Rock Casino Rockford Slot Attendants Join Teamsters

Slot attendants at Hard Rock Casino Rockford, Forest City’s newest entertainment destination, voted by an overwhelming majority to join a local union. This week, approximately 98% of the slot attendants at the popular hotel and casino resort voted in favor of joining Teamsters Local 325, the largest union in the United States and one that represents more than 1,000 workers across northern Illinois.

Teamsters Now Represents Slot Attendants at Hard Rock Rockford

Voting in favor of union representation, the slot attendants join more than 5,000 casino and gaming industry employees represented by Teamsters across the country. Previously, warehouse workers at Hard Rock Rockford have also voted in favor of union representation. Now, their fellow slot attendant coworkers are going to benefit from being represented by Teamsters Local 325 too.

As noted, the union represents more than 1,000 workers in northern Illinois. Besides casino employees, Teamsters represents workers from the public sector, sanitation and freight drivers, clerical staff, and other vital roles.

Looking at the bigger picture, the union represents more than 1.4 million workers across the nation. The union, according to its official website, is run as a democracy, which means that its members help elect leaders. The union also sets clear priorities and goals and can reject or approve proposed contracts via a secret ballot.

The Announcement Brings Excitement to Slot Workers and Union Reps Alike

Siara Raymer, who works as a slot attendant at Hard Rock Casino Rockford, shared her excitement about the latest announcement. She said that the slot attendants are happy to be represented by Teamsters, joining their fellow warehouse and valet coworkers who are already represented. “All of us were fed up with the status quo and knew it was time to stand our ground. Now, we are ready to fight for what we deserve,” Raymer added.

“I congratulate these workers for showing resilience and voting to join our Teamsters family.“

Erick Calvert, secretary-treasurer of Teamsters Local 325

Erick Calvert, Teamsters’ secretary-treasurer, congratulated the Hard Rock Casino Rockford workers for the recent vote that granted them union representation. “Despite an aggressive anti-union campaign, they sent a clear message to Hard Rock management that they are serious about winning the dignity, respect, and strong contract they deserve,” Calvert added.

It was last summer when Hard Rock Casino Rockford celebrated its grand opening. Coinciding with that announcement, the operator confirmed it joined forces with a local public transportation provider that agreed to serve the venue, making it easily accessible for people who don’t drive.