LAS VEGAS, NV — Workers employed by Encore, a prominent audio-visual services provider catering to the high-profile resorts along the Las Vegas Strip, are officially initiating a public unionization campaign that is receiving significant backing from the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE). Although federal law guarantees workers the right to unionize, Encore has reportedly scheduled mandatory meetings aimed at discouraging employees from pursuing union representation, a move many see as union-busting tactics.
Encore technicians and riggers play a critical role in the seamless operation of a staggering 31 venues throughout Las Vegas, servicing major establishments such as Aria, Bellagio, MGM Grand, and Caesars Palace. These skilled workers are tasked with the comprehensive setup, operation, and dismantling of advanced audiovisual systems for a variety of events, in addition to the vital responsibilities of securing and inspecting rigging equipment within the hospitality environment.
These so-called ‘captive audience meetings’ represent a well-documented strategy employed by employers to undermine unionization efforts. During these mandatory meetings held during work hours, management often tries to dissuade employees from uniting for collective bargaining. While several U.S. states—including California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, and Washington—have enacted laws that either prohibit captive audience meetings entirely or prevent employers from penalizing workers for opting not to attend, such practices remain controversial and widespread.
This campaign emerges in the wake of recent labor victories in Las Vegas, highlighted by the Culinary Union’s landmark contract agreement with The Venetian Resort, which notably marked the last casino resort on the Strip to achieve union representation for its culinary and bartending staff.
While IATSE Local 720 already represents the majority of Encore’s workforce, the company has reportedly resisted efforts to include “satellite” workers under the union contract with Local 720. This exclusion has prompted these workers to seek additional support from IATSE’s international office, amplifying their call for fair representation.
IATSE International President Matthew D. Loeb has publicly voiced support for the Encore workers, reinforcing the union’s dedication to advancing their cause. “The workers at Encore have a fundamental right to join together and unionize, and they deserve the same rights and protections that unionized entertainment and hospitality workers in Las Vegas already enjoy. As a union, we fully support their efforts and will work to ensure they have the opportunity to secure fair treatment and safe working conditions.”
As Encore escalates its union-busting efforts, the workers are going public in their pursuit of union representation in response. IATSE is committed to supporting the Encore employees in their campaign to secure fair, just, and safe workplaces on the Las Vegas Strip.
**Interview with Sarah Johnson, Union Organizer with IATSE**
**Editor:** Welcome, Sarah, and thank you for joining us today. We’re here to discuss the recent developments with Encore’s workers in Las Vegas who are moving forward with a unionization campaign. Can you give us some insight into the current situation?
**Sarah Johnson:** Thank you for having me. Yes, the workers at Encore are mobilizing for their rights, and it’s an essential moment for them as they seek to organize. These individuals are the backbone of countless events across the Strip, and they deserve a voice to advocate for fair working conditions and compensation.
**Editor:** We’ve heard reports about Encore scheduling mandatory meetings, often referred to as ‘captive audience meetings.’ Can you explain what these meetings typically entail and their intended purpose?
**Sarah Johnson:** Captive audience meetings are often used by employers as a tactic to discourage unionization. During these meetings, management presents anti-union messages, trying to instill fear in workers about the potential consequences of joining a union. These meetings are mandatory, meaning that employees have no choice but to attend, and they frequently occur during work hours, which adds to the pressure the workers feel.
**Editor:** How are workers responding to these meetings, especially given the support from IATSE?
**Sarah Johnson:** The support from IATSE has been monumental. Workers are more informed and empowered knowing that they have an internationally recognized union backing them. Many employees are voicing their concerns about the tactics being used in these meetings, recognizing them for what they are—attempts at intimidation. Our goal is to ensure they understand their rights and the protections available to them under federal law.
**Editor:** What are the next steps for Encore workers in their unionization drive?
**Sarah Johnson:** The workers will continue to rally support amongst their colleagues and engage in educational efforts about the benefits of unionizing. We’re also preparing for the next phases, which will include organizing events and building solidarity. The ultimate goal is to file for a union election once they have enough support. Ultimately, it’s about creating a workplace where their voices are heard and respected.
**Editor:** Thank you, Sarah, for shedding light on this crucial issue. It will be interesting to see how this situation develops in the coming weeks.
**Sarah Johnson:** Thank you for covering this important topic. The strength of workers coming together is a powerful force, and we are committed to standing alongside them in their fight for justice.
