Md. Nasir, New York (USA) Correspondent:

After a prolonged campaign, picketing, and years of negotiations, workers at the Fairfield by Marriott Manhattan Times Square and Four Points by Sheraton Midtown–Times Square hotels have finally signed their first union contracts.

The agreement, signed on Friday (August 14, 2026), is being celebrated as a historic victory for hotel workers. Although neither the union nor hotel management had issued a detailed official statement at the time of writing, workers expressed excitement and relief after reaching the milestone.

Employees at both hotels voted to join the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council (HTC), AFL-CIO, in October 2022. Since then, negotiations over a first contract continued for nearly four years. During that period, the union repeatedly raised concerns about labor practices, while workers organized multiple rounds of picketing and public demonstrations.

The union advocated for fair wages, affordable healthcare, a safe workplace, and respectful treatment. While the full details of the new agreements, including wages, pensions, and healthcare benefits, have not yet been released, workers consider the contracts a major step forward.

HTC President Rich Maroko praised the achievement, describing it as an extraordinary victory for hotel workers. He emphasized that the dedication, unity, and determination of union members were the driving forces behind the successful outcome. Maroko also noted that workers’ willingness to organize, picket, and stand together strengthened the union’s position throughout the negotiations.

HTC member MD Nasir congratulated both the union leadership and the workers, saying, “This victory proves that when workers remain united and continue fighting for their rights, positive change becomes possible. I sincerely thank HTC President Rich Maroko, union leaders, and every worker who stood on the picket line and never gave up during this long struggle.”

He added, “This agreement is not only a victory for the workers at these two hotels but also a source of inspiration for hotel employees across New York. Unity, solidarity, and perseverance will always remain the greatest strengths of working people.”