Dozens of Casa Bonita workers on Friday voted to unionize, adding muscle to their requests for more protections, better pay and other concerns that performers have shared in recent months.
About 80 cliff divers, magicians, actors, puppeteers and others at the Mexican eatery — which was bought by “South Park” creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone and upgraded to the tune of $40 million — are now represented by the Actors’ Equity Association and International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 7, according to a union statement.
They unanimously voted to unionized in order to address concerns in front of and behind the stage, as well as negotiate for better compensation. Some of their concerns include insufficient training, scheduling and safety from “abusive patrons emboldened by alcohol,” The Denver Post has reported.
“IATSE Local 7 couldn’t be more humbled and thrilled by the incredible crew of Casa Bonita,” said business agent Max Peterson in the statement. “The days and weeks leading up to this election have been an inspiring example of solidarity. … This result shows that the crew is ready for a brighter future through bargaining collectively to bring safety, security and lasting improvements to their workplace. We are excited to stand with and beside them as we prepare for and begin negotiations!”
“Casa Bonita values all its employees,” according to an unsigned statement provided by the company, and attributed to unnamed managers. “We respect the rights of our employees and their recent vote to form a union. We look forward to continuing a positive relationship going forward.” The company said it would not comment beyond that.
A letter from Casa Bonita’s general manager to staff, obtained by The Denver Post, showed the restaurant declined to voluntarily recognize the union and suggested there be a vote. The employees filed with the National Labor Relations Board for the union election.
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“The workers made it clear (Friday) that they stand united for a stronger and safer Casa Bonita,” said Stefanie Frey, Actors’ Equity Association’s director of organizing and mobilization. “It is their vision and courage that brought us quickly to an election, and that passion is what is going to get us through bargaining.”
The next step for employees of the beloved Lakewood restaurant is negotiations, union officials said. That’s quick turnaround for efforts that were only formally announced last month.
“Alcohol is a big part of revenue and patrons, you know, they indulge,” said worker Joshua Emerson. “We’re on the floor until 10 (p.m.) and really we have a timeline. At 8 p.m. we know that’s when people are going to be the drunkest, so we sort of have to watch our backs.”
According to Emerson and others, actors are paid a flat hourly rate, from about $21 to $28, determined by which role they are playing, The Post’s Tiney Ricciardi has reported. Right now, it’s unclear how individuals are promoted or when their pay rate increases due to a promotion, prompting some employees to leave, they said.