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Press Release

MTA supports Encore casino and hotel workers

These 1,300 workers represented by UNITE HERE Local 26 and Teamsters Local 25 are the heart and soul of this hospitality, leisure and gaming giant.
UNITE HERE Local 26
By: Scott McLennan
Published: September 3, 2026

Massachusetts Teachers Association President Matt Bach and Vice President Deb Gesualdo issued the following statement of support for members of UNITE HERE Local 26 and Teamsters Local 26, who are seeking a fair contract with Boston Encore Harbor:

The members of the Massachusetts Teachers Association stand in solidarity with the workers at the Boston Encore Harbor hotel and casino fighting for a fair contract. Their decision to go on strike tomorrow is grounded in justice. These 1,300 workers represented by UNITE HERE Local 26 and Teamsters Local 25 are the heart and soul of this hospitality, leisure and gaming giant. Their demands for thriving wages, job security and access to healthcare are reasonable and will ensure not only the continued success of Encore but also support the community at large counting on these jobs.

Encore workers are our neighbors and the caregivers of the children we educate.

Encore workers are our neighbors and the caregivers of the children we educate. They deserve dignity, respect and fair treatment from an employer quite capable of paying workers fair wages.

If casino management refuses to settle a fair contract that acknowledges the dignity of the workers who make Encore possible, we urge everyone to honor the unions’ picket lines and to stand in solidarity with UNITE HERE Local 26 and Teamsters Local 25.

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