Horseshoe Casino Workers Join Teamsters After Seven-Week Strike

Casino Workers Triumph with Union Representation After Lengthy Strike

Contact: Maura Drumm Phone: (215) 510-3735 Email: MDrumm@teamster.org

(SHELBYVILLE, Ind.) – Employees at the Horseshoe Indianapolis Casino have successfully voted for Teamsters Local 135 representation following a seven-week strike. The dealers and dual rates undertook this action when their scheduled vote was obstructed.

Expressing pride in their collective action, Dakota Massman, a table games dealer, remarked, “Being part of this strike reminded me just how much power we have as workers. Horseshoe has billions of dollars behind it. They did everything in their power to stop us from getting the strong representation we wanted and deserved. But it wasn’t enough, and I’m so proud to have taken part in this fight.”

Initially set for October 17, the election faced hurdles when the casino chose not to conduct it, prompting the workers to strike. Despite employing various anti-union strategies, the casino could not deter the determined workforce.

Dustin Roach, President of Local 135, highlighted the workers' resilience by stating, “Horseshoe Indianapolis pulled out every union-busting tactic in an attempt to undermine this group. But in the end, the militancy of these workers proved too powerful. We can’t wait to bring that same fighting spirit to bargaining for their first contract.”

Owned by Caesars Entertainment, Horseshoe faced a determined push from the union. Tommy Blitsch, Director of the Teamsters Convention, Trade Show, and Casino Division, reiterated the union's stance, noting, “Our union made it clear to Horseshoe from the start that there was only one way this strike was ending, and that’s with Teamsters representation. It has been inspiring to see these workers make it happen.”

Teamsters Local 135, a representative body for over 12,000 members across various sectors, was central to this effort. More details can be found at local135.com.