The dancers are seeking increased protection from belligerent customers, and they also want to ensure they receive an adequate share of the revenue generated through their performances.
But when they attempted to meet with their bosses to discuss their grievances, the dancers were locked out. They picketed the club for eight months. The situation escalated in August when the majority of strippers filed a petition for a union-recognition election with the National Labor Relations Board.
Star Garden closed its doors in early as management attempted to file for bankruptcy, saying the club would reopen as a pool hall. But that never happened. Management agreed to recognize the union and meet at the bargaining table. Ongoing negotiations for a labor agreement have been underway throughout the summer and are ongoing, union officials said. Lilith said labor negotiations have been happening every other week. Velveeta, a Star Garden dancer, said last year that the dancers were in dire need of collective bargaining.
By Kevin Smith kvsmith scng. More in Business.
