Aramark workers strike against all 3 Philadelphia sports stadiums

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Union Aramark workers went on strike Monday against all three stadiums at the Philadelphia Sports Complex.

That includes the Wells Fargo Center, Citizens Bank Park, and Lincoln Financial Field.

Leaders with Unite Here Local 274-- Philadelphia's food service workers' union -- said those on the picket lines include cooks, servers, bartenders, dishwashers, concessions workers, cleaners, retail workers, and warehouse workers employed by Aramark.

This comes after Aramark employees from the Wells Fargo Center, Citizens Bank Park, and Lincoln Financial Field all voted in favor of authorizing a strike.

There are three Phillies games this week at the Bank and several other events scheduled at the Wells Fargo Center.

Union leaders say workers want family-sustaining wage increases and year-round healthcare benefits from company leaders.

The union also previously said different rules and wage rates are used for each of the three stadiums, despite similar job responsibilities for the same employer.

"We're asking for life-sustaining wages. At this point, we're only making $14 to $16 an hour while they're grossing $18 billion a year. We're asking for health care and equal treatment at all three stadiums," said employee Shelly Degasto.

Strike organizers also noted that this decision was made after Mayor Cherelle Parker struck a deal with the 76ers for a new arena in Center City.

"Before we even talk about building a new arena, we need to make sure that stadium food service jobs are good jobs," Tiffani Davis, an Aramark concessions worker, wrote in a statement.

The dispute between Local 274 and Aramark has been going on for months. Dozens of protesters were taken into custody in June. And before that, they went on strike in April at the Wells Fargo Center when the Sixers were in playoffs.

State Senator Sharif Street joined protesters on Monday to show support.

"I would like to see this settled where the fans and the teams do well and they get paid. I'm confident Aramark knows what to do to still get it done," said Street.

Despite the strike, union leaders asked fans to continue enjoying events at the Philadelphia Sports Complex but to boycott buying food and drinks from Aramark. Instead, the union suggested fans could tailgate.

Aramark responded to Action News, saying the company has agreed to two of the union's demands and that wages have gone up.

"In fact, the average total income inclusive of wages and tips for this group of employees have risen by 61% over the past five years," said Aramark in a statement.

Aramark officials say they have a backup plan to be sure concessions are staffed.

Delivery drivers represented by the teamsters also have the option to refuse to bring deliveries. They haul beer, food and other supplies to the stadiums.