Reported by: MD Nasir, New Jersey, USA

Leaders Highlight Hotel Workers’ Fair Contracts, Wages, and Labor Rights

NEW YORK, October 27, 2026 — New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Hotel and Gaming Trades Council (HTC) President Rich Maroko participated in a major “Get Out the Vote” rally at the union’s auditorium on West 44th Street in Manhattan. The event encouraged voter participation ahead of the upcoming election while highlighting fair wages, improved labor contracts, workplace dignity, and the protection of workers’ rights.

Maroko Highlights Hochul’s Support for Hotel Workers

During the rally, HTC President Rich Maroko highlighted Governor Hochul’s support for New York City hotel workers in their fight for fair contracts and better working conditions.

Maroko pointed to Hochul’s presence during a 47-day picket outside the Fairfield Inn, saying her support helped boost workers’ morale. Speakers emphasized her presence alongside workers despite extreme heat, heavy rain, and other challenging weather conditions.

Maroko also highlighted Hochul’s role in Albany and her support on the picket line, describing these efforts as important to hotel workers’ contract negotiations. Speakers characterized the resulting labor agreement as one of the best contracts in the union’s 100-year history.

The rally underscored the importance of cooperation between labor unions and elected officials in advancing fair wages, improved benefits, and dignified working conditions.

Hochul Highlights Initiatives for Working Families

Governor Hochul discussed her working relationship with Maroko and her efforts to address concerns raised by workers and union leaders.

The event also highlighted several initiatives associated with her administration aimed at supporting working families and reducing household expenses, including:

• Unemployment benefits: Efforts to address the unemployment insurance fund’s shortfall and improve financial support for unemployed workers.
• Free school meals: Providing free breakfast and lunch to students across New York State.
• Student learning: Restricting cellphone use in schools to help students focus on their education.
• Child care and early education: Expanding access to child care and prekindergarten programs to help reduce costs for working families.

Unity and Collective Action Remain Central to Labor Rights

For unionized hotel employees in New York, fair contracts, health insurance, pensions, and respectful working conditions remain essential priorities. Collective bargaining and organized labor continue to play an important role in advocating for workers’ interests.

Speakers emphasized that progress in hotel contract negotiations does not mean the broader struggle for workers’ rights is over. They also highlighted the importance of continued support for workers in other industries, including casino employees.

The “Get Out the Vote” rally combined a call for active voter participation with a broader message about the role of organized labor in protecting workers’ rights and supporting working families.