November 11, 2010

The American Studies Association (ASA) and UNITE HERE reaffirm their working relationship.

ASA strongly supports UNITE HERE and INMEX in their efforts to further the cause of workers rights.

ASA joins UNITE HERE in urging Global Hyatt to resolve their labor dispute in San Antonio.

The American Studies Association and UNITE HERE reaffirm their working relationship, specifically in regard to their strategic partnership as it relates to placing their meetings in hotels where employers treat workers with respect and dignity.

ASA is proud to be a founding member of INMEX, a non-profit meeting planning organization started by UNITE HERE to ensure that groups such as ASA hold their meetings and conferences at hotels and conference centers that treat their workers with dignity and respect.  With the assistance of INMEX, tens of millions of dollars worth of meeting and convention business has been diverted to corporations that practice high-road employment practices.  John Stephens, ASA Executive Director, is the Chair of INMEX and plays a key role in the organization’s mission to support workers rights by sending business to responsible employers.

To that end, the ASA is hopeful that the current labor unrest at the San Antonio Hyatt will be resolved prior to their Annual Meeting on November 18.  ASA stands by UNITE HERE in urging Global Hyatt to settle this matter, and all other outstanding organizing efforts by workers at their hotels, as quickly as possible and in a manner that is respectful of the workers.

ASA is prepared to make a decision not to return to any Hyatt properties in the future until this and all other outstanding organizing issues with UNITE HERE have been resolved.