Rally backs dealers at Atlantic City casinos

As Solidarity went to press, final preparations were under way for a major labor and community mobilization in downtown Atlantic City, N.J. The June 21 event was held to back the fight by casino dealers, slot technicians, keno and simulcast employees, and other workers for a fair contract. Scheduled speakers included UAW President Ron Gettelfinger and AFL-CIO President John Sweeney.

"We're excited about people coming from all over the country to support us," said Robert Beck, a casino dealer at Bally's. "We're winning elections, we're winning legislation, and now we're going to have support from the entire labor movement and our community to win fair contracts."

Since March 2007, casino workers have organized and won six union representation elections at four major Atlantic City casinos: Caesars, Trump Plaza, Bally's and Tropicana.

Despite overwhelming pro-union majorities and elections that have been recognized by the National Labor Relations Board, casino operators have repeatedly stalled contract talks.

For full coverage, visit the one-stop Web site for all Atlantic City UAW-
represented casino workers: www.acdealersunion.com.