Unionization and Immigrant Incorporation in San Francisco Hotels

Status Divisions and Worker Mobilization

“…The first approach emphasizes certain structural inequalities and typically employs quantitative methods to identify generalizable patterns of worker attitudes and actions (e.g., Cornfield and Kim 1994;Wheeler and McClendon 1991). This is qualified, however, by arguments that stress the agency of institutional actors and individuals, and the dynamic, sometimes historically contingent nature of mobilization (e.g., Fantasia 1988;McAdam 1983;Wells 2000). Given these theoretical guideposts, I first present a brief background and case history noting the crucial events of this particular work stoppage.…”

“…A growing body of work, however, suggests that the impact of status complexity on labor organization and resistance is quite varied, depending, among other things, the concerted efforts of unions and employers (Brueggemann and Boswell 1998;Hodson 1995;Wells 2000). 1 Little research has addressed how such divisions and related inequalities may influence individual strike involvement.…”

“…For instance, unions which have institutionalized inclusive practices have, in some circumstances, successfully countered harsh employer strategies, bridged racial/ethnic and skill divides among workers, and mounted formidable campaigns (Brown and Bruggemann 1997;Brueggemann and Boswell 1998;Wellman 1995). Wells' (2000) work on immigrant unionization efforts points to the potential of inclusive and innovative organizing approaches to overcome potentially fragmenting occupational structures. Some unions in this regard have turned to rank-and-file intensive strategies that emphasize worker militancy, place an emphasis on social justice issues and dignity at work (as opposed to solely economic issues), and encourage solidarity actions on the job (Sherman and Voss 2000).…”

Nonprofits and Cross‐Organizational Collaborations to Promote Local Labor Rights Policies

“…One reason why unions collaborate locally with community nonprofits is because nonprofits—especially those serving immigrants—can help unions gain better access to immigrant workers ripe for organizing. While immigrants are receptive to unionism (Milkman ; Wells ), many shy away from organizing that puts them in the spotlight because of their immigration status or limited English language skills (Fine ; Jayaraman and Ness ). Immigrants also tend to work in industries that are difficult to unionize due to the small size of the workplace, the decentralized nature of the industry, or the isolated nature of work (Ness ).…”

“…Community nonprofits also help rally support for unions—especially among immigrants and other low‐wage workers—by expanding the union agenda to include broader community concerns, such as poverty reduction, affordable housing, immigration reform, and a clean environment (Botein ; Needleman ; Wells ). Furthermore, nonprofits can help unions win recognition outside the traditional National Labor Relations Board elections process, for example, by pressuring employers to recognize neutrality agreements (Sherman and Voss ).…”