Striking Culinary Union members staged a significant protest at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, resulting in 57 arrests, including union Secretary-Treasurer Ted Pappageorge. The peaceful arrests occurred when protesters blocked Paradise Road outside the hotel in a pre-planned act of civil disobedience.

The round-the-clock picket line, which began last Friday, continues as union leadership rejected the hotel's latest offer. The strike affects approximately 700 hospitality workers who have been working without a contract since June 1, 2023.

Key demands include:

• Higher wages
• A five-year contract
• Comparable salary levels and conditions to other Las Vegas properties
• Improved working conditions for various hospitality positions

This marks the second instance of civil disobedience at the hotel, following August arrests of 23 workers and union leaders who demonstrated at the hotel's porte-cochere.

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas has responded by hiring temporary workers, claiming they are qualified and experienced, while stating the union isn't engaging in "meaningful bargaining." The union continues to urge the public not to cross the picket line and seeks what it terms a "fair contract."

The strike coincides with the Formula 1 Las Vegas race weekend, a major event drawing numerous visitors to local hotels.

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