UNITE HERE Local 11

https://unitehere11.org

UNITE HERE Local 11 is a labor union representing over 32,000 workers across hotels, restaurants, airports, sports arenas, and convention centers throughout Southern California and Arizona. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, its core mission is to advocate for improved living standards and working conditions for its diverse membership.

The union provides a range of services to its members, including collective bargaining, worker advocacy, and access to health benefits, pension plans, and a legal fund. It primarily serves the hospitality and food service sectors, ensuring fair treatment and opportunities for workers in these key market segments.

Led by Co-Presidents Ada Briceño, Susan Minato, and Kurt Petersen, UNITE HERE Local 11 maintains an active presence in regional labor issues. Recent activities include advocating for hospitality workers and engaging in political discourse, such as their stance on the LA28 Olympics and support for workers at Arizona State University. The union also recently expanded its member services with the opening of a new dental office as part of the UNITE HERE Health Center.

Latest updates

Long Beach Yacht Club Faces Sex Harassment Claims, Union Negotiations Intensify

Event summary

  • Two former employees, Julianne Perez and Vanessa Wainer, filed complaints with the California Civil Rights Department alleging sex-based harassment at the Long Beach Yacht Club.
  • Both women allege repeated harassment, particularly targeting pregnant employees, spanning multiple years and involving the Yacht Club's executive chef.
  • Ms. Perez claims harassment caused anxiety, health issues, and an early maternity leave, while Ms. Wainer resigned in late 2025 due to the hostile work environment.
  • UNITE HERE Local 11 is currently negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement with the Yacht Club, citing the need for worker protections and dignified working conditions.

The big picture

This case highlights the increasing scrutiny of workplace culture and governance within private clubs and organizations, particularly concerning gender equality and worker protections. The allegations, coupled with ongoing union negotiations, suggest a potential shift in power dynamics between employers and employees in the hospitality sector. The incident underscores the risk of failing to address systemic issues within organizations, even those operating under a veneer of exclusivity.

What we're watching

Legal Ramifications
The California Civil Rights Department’s investigation and potential penalties could significantly impact the Long Beach Yacht Club’s operations and reputation, especially given its reliance on public land.
Union Leverage
UNITE HERE Local 11’s bargaining position will likely strengthen, potentially leading to more stringent worker protections and increased labor costs for the Yacht Club and similar private clubs.
Reputational Risk
The allegations, and the ensuing media coverage, pose a substantial reputational risk to the Long Beach Yacht Club, potentially impacting membership and event bookings.

LAX Airline Catering Workers Allege Systemic Labor Violations, Spark Commission Call for License Revocation

Event summary

  • Airline catering workers at Flying Food Group, serving international airlines at LAX, publicly testified before a Truth Commission about unsafe conditions, wage theft, and retaliation.
  • The Truth Commission, composed of labor leaders and community figures, recommended the City of Los Angeles not renew Flying Food Group’s license.
  • Five government agencies have issued citations or complaints against Flying Food Group since 2021 for labor and safety violations.
  • Dishwasher Sonia Ceron detailed a chemical splash incident and inadequate eyewash facilities, alleging potential blindness risk.
  • UNITE HERE Local 11, representing over 32,000 hospitality workers, organized and supported the testimony.

The big picture

The public Truth Commission highlights a growing trend of worker activism and increased scrutiny of labor practices within essential service industries. Flying Food Group's struggles reflect broader challenges facing companies reliant on low-wage labor, particularly as regulatory oversight and public awareness of worker exploitation intensifies. This incident could accelerate a shift towards greater corporate accountability and potentially impact the profitability of businesses dependent on precarious labor models.

What we're watching

Regulatory Headwinds
The City of Los Angeles's decision regarding Flying Food Group's license renewal will signal the municipality's commitment to worker protections and could set a precedent for other airport vendors.
Contract Risk
International airlines relying on Flying Food Group's services face potential disruptions and reputational damage if the company's operations are significantly impacted by regulatory action.
Union Leverage
UNITE HERE Local 11's successful mobilization of workers and public pressure will likely embolden similar organizing efforts within the broader hospitality sector.

Flying Food Group Admits Labor Law Violations in NLRB Settlement

Event summary

  • Flying Food Group, an airline caterer, settled a National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) case, admitting to violating federal labor law protections.
  • The settlement, reached on April 2, 2026, avoids a trial initially scheduled for March 31, 2026.
  • Flying Food Group admitted to illegally attempting to oust UNITE HERE Local 11, including interrogating workers about union sympathies and assisting in a decertification campaign.
  • The company agreed to pay $50,000 to a worker allegedly fired for union activity and will implement a list of prohibited actions to protect worker rights.
  • This settlement follows a two-year investigation and is the second such settlement for Flying Food Group, which has faced citations from five government agencies over the past several years.

The big picture

This settlement highlights the growing scrutiny of labor practices within the hospitality and transportation sectors, particularly as unions gain leverage post-pandemic. Flying Food Group's multiple citations across various agencies underscore a systemic governance failure, potentially impacting its ability to secure and maintain contracts with major airlines. The willingness of the NLRB to extract admissions from the company represents a shift in enforcement strategy, setting a precedent for similar cases.

What we're watching

Regulatory Headwinds
The NLRB's willingness to require admissions as part of settlements signals a potentially more aggressive stance towards employer labor practices, increasing compliance costs and legal risk for similar companies.
Operational Impact
The mandated restrictions on management behavior will likely necessitate significant changes to Flying Food Group's operational procedures and training programs, potentially impacting efficiency and productivity.
Contractual Risk
The planned Truth Commission and ongoing worker activism suggest a sustained period of reputational and operational disruption, which could influence future contract negotiations with airlines.

LA28 Chair Faces Calls for Investigation Over Potential Conflict of Interest

Event summary

  • LA28 Board Chair Casey Wasserman retained Moelis & Company to advise on the sale of his $800 million stake in Wasserman Media Group.
  • Ken Moelis, Executive Chairman of Moelis & Company, also serves as a member of the LA28 Board.
  • The Fair Games Coalition, including UNITE HERE Local 11, is calling for an independent investigation into the potential conflict of interest.
  • Dozens of elected officials have already called for Casey Wasserman's resignation.
  • The Fair Games Coalition previously called for Wasserman’s resignation in December 2025, citing concerns over board appointments and security protocols.

The big picture

This situation highlights the increasing pressure on major sporting organizations to demonstrate transparency and ethical governance, particularly as they rely on significant private investment and board representation from high-net-worth individuals. The incident underscores the risk of blurring lines between personal financial interests and public duties, potentially eroding public trust and inviting regulatory intervention. The $800 million stake involved represents a substantial personal asset, amplifying the perception of impropriety.

What we're watching

Governance Dynamics
The outcome of the investigation will likely dictate the future leadership of LA28 and influence the appointment process for future board members, potentially leading to stricter conflict-of-interest protocols.
Reputational Risk
Continued scrutiny of LA28's governance could negatively impact public perception of the Games and potentially affect sponsorship revenue and ticket sales.
Regulatory Headwinds
The City of Los Angeles may introduce new oversight mechanisms or regulations for LA28, increasing scrutiny of financial transactions and board member conduct.

LAX Probes Flying Food Group Amid Safety, Labor Allegations

Event summary

  • LAX has launched an investigation into Flying Food Group for permit violations and non-compliance with the airport’s Contractor Responsibility Policy.
  • The investigation follows a fire at a Flying Food Group facility on January 22, 2026, the second in four months.
  • LAWA has received multiple allegations over several years regarding worker safety, wage violations, and sexual harassment at Flying Food Group facilities.
  • Seven women have alleged sexual harassment at Flying Food Group, with three claiming retaliation for reporting it.
  • Flying Food Group’s Certified Service Provider License Agreement expires June 30, 2026, triggering a recertification review.

The big picture

The investigation highlights the growing scrutiny of labor practices and safety standards within the airport concessions sector. This incident underscores the increasing risk for companies reliant on government contracts, particularly as municipalities prioritize ESG considerations and worker protections. The allegations against Flying Food Group, coupled with the impending license expiration, create significant uncertainty around the company's future operations and financial stability.

What we're watching

License Renewal
The outcome of Flying Food Group’s recertification process will likely hinge on the resolution of the current allegations, potentially impacting its ability to operate at LAX.
Legal Exposure
Further Cal/OSHA investigations and potential lawsuits related to the harassment claims could significantly increase Flying Food Group’s legal and financial liabilities.
Contractor Risk
LAX’s willingness to enforce its Contractor Responsibility Policy will signal a broader shift in how airports manage vendor compliance and risk, potentially impacting other concessionaires.

Immigration Enforcement Erodes GOP Support, Signals 2026 Midterm Shift

Event summary

  • A UNITE HERE poll reveals that 60% of Americans believe the Trump Administration prioritizes deportations over economic issues.
  • Approximately 15% of voters who supported Donald Trump in 2024 now indicate they will not vote for a Republican in Congress in 2026.
  • Immigration enforcement is cited as a key driver of voter disaffection, particularly among Trump defectors (54%).
  • 73% of Americans support a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, and 72% support a path to legal residency.
  • 51% of Americans view the Republican Party less favorably than a year ago.

The big picture

This poll highlights a growing disconnect between the Republican Party's policy priorities and voter concerns, particularly among key constituencies. The data suggests that a hardline stance on immigration, while appealing to a base, is alienating a significant number of voters and potentially jeopardizing the party's prospects in the 2026 midterms. The demonstrated support for a pathway to citizenship indicates a broader shift in public sentiment that could force a reevaluation of immigration policy.

What we're watching

Political Realignment
The GOP's ability to regain lost support among 2024 Trump voters will depend on whether they can shift focus away from enforcement and address economic concerns.
Policy Response
The administration's response to the poll's findings and potential shifts in immigration policy will significantly impact the Republican Party's standing.
Labor Influence
UNITE HERE's continued advocacy and data collection will likely shape the narrative around immigration and its economic impact, potentially influencing policy debates.

PrimeFlight Acquisition Amplifies Labor Turmoil at Phoenix Sky Harbor

Event summary

  • Private equity firm Atlantic Street Capital sold GAT/Sky Café to PrimeFlight, owned by Sterling Group and Capitol Meridian Partners, on February 5, 2026.
  • This acquisition follows a November 2025 layoff of 200 UNITE HERE Local 11 members when LSG Sky Chefs lost a contract with American Airlines to GAT/Sky Café.
  • Sky Café workers received a poorly communicated letter requiring “onboarding steps” to continue employment under PrimeFlight, with potential changes to benefits and policies.
  • At least 59 Local 11 members are currently unemployed, and the remaining Sky Café workers lack union representation.
  • Claims filed with the Industrial Commission of Arizona allege unpaid wages for at least five food service employees, and a complaint to the Arizona Attorney General cites potential minimum wage violations.

The big picture

This situation highlights the increasing prevalence of private equity involvement in essential service sectors, often leading to workforce instability and potential labor disputes. The acquisition strategy of rolling up smaller catering businesses creates operational complexity and exposes vulnerabilities to regulatory and labor challenges. The lack of engagement from Atlantic Street Capital underscores a broader trend of private equity firms prioritizing financial returns over stakeholder considerations, particularly concerning employee welfare.

What we're watching

Labor Relations
PrimeFlight’s response to UNITE HERE Local 11’s concerns will be a key indicator of its approach to labor management and potential for future disputes.
Regulatory Scrutiny
The pending investigations into wage violations could expose broader compliance issues within PrimeFlight’s subcontracting network and attract further regulatory attention.
Contract Stability
The rapid turnover of catering contracts at Phoenix Sky Harbor suggests a vulnerability in the airline catering market, potentially impacting PrimeFlight’s long-term revenue stability.

Aviation Services Merger Faces Antitrust Scrutiny

Event summary

  • UNITE HERE Local 11 has formally requested the FTC and DOJ to block PrimeFlight’s acquisition of GAT/Sky Café.
  • The proposed merger would create overlapping operations at 27 airports across the U.S.
  • PrimeFlight and GAT/Sky Café provide general aviation aircraft and support services.
  • The union cites concerns about decreased competition, potential price increases for airlines and consumers, and negative impacts on worker wages and conditions.
  • The action follows similar scrutiny of the Kroger-Albertsons merger, which the FTC ultimately blocked.

The big picture

This challenge to the PrimeFlight/GAT/Sky Café acquisition highlights a broader trend of increased antitrust scrutiny of private equity deals, particularly those impacting consumer prices and labor conditions. The recent blocking of the Kroger-Albertsons merger has emboldened regulatory agencies and labor groups to challenge further consolidation. The aviation services sector, characterized by a few large players, is particularly vulnerable to concerns about market dominance and its impact on both airlines and consumers.

What we're watching

Regulatory Response
The FTC and DOJ’s investigation will be critical, as a block would signal heightened scrutiny of private equity-led consolidation in the aviation services sector.
Labor Impact
The outcome will likely influence UNITE HERE’s bargaining power and strategies regarding labor negotiations with other aviation service providers.
Competitive Landscape
The degree to which the merger proceeds, even with conditions, will shape the competitive dynamics among aviation support services providers and potentially impact airline pricing.

LA Investigates Flying Food Group Over Alleged Retaliation Against Harassment Whistleblowers

Event summary

  • UNITE HERE Local 11, alongside UC Irvine’s Law and Organizing Clinic, filed a complaint with the City of Los Angeles, alleging Flying Food Group retaliated against three employees (Nelly Hernandez, Thelma Cortez Villalta, and Zayra Lopez) who reported sexual harassment.
  • The alleged retaliation includes disproportionate disciplinary actions, suspension, and threats of termination, following the workers’ complaints and public statements.
  • Flying Food Group, which employs over 700 workers, operates under City contracts that prohibit retaliation and mandate compliance with labor laws.
  • The complaint highlights a pattern of prior citations against Flying Food Group from multiple agencies, including Cal/OSHA and the City’s Bureau of Contract Administration, for safety, wage, and public safety violations.
  • LAWA leadership has reportedly not enforced contract requirements related to Flying Food Group despite repeated worker concerns.

The big picture

This case underscores the growing scrutiny of corporate labor practices, particularly in sectors reliant on contract labor. The confluence of heightened regulatory oversight, increased worker activism, and public pressure for ESG compliance creates significant operational and financial risk for companies like Flying Food Group. The incident also highlights the potential for reputational damage and legal liabilities stemming from inadequate workplace protections, even for businesses operating under public contracts.

What we're watching

Regulatory Response
The City of Los Angeles’ investigation will likely set a precedent for how it handles contractor compliance with labor and civil rights laws, potentially impacting other businesses with similar contracts.
Contract Risk
Flying Food Group’s existing contracts with LAX are now at risk of non-renewal or modification if the investigation substantiates the allegations, potentially disrupting catering services.
Union Leverage
UNITE HERE Local 11’s actions will likely embolden other hospitality workers to report workplace misconduct, increasing pressure on employers to improve compliance and risk management.
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