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O'Hare Airport Workers Commit To Strike Today

Payton Chung
/
"O'Hare Concourse C" CC by 2.0

Workers at O'Hare International Airport are expected to walk off the job today over union rights and an hourly wage of $15.  

About 500 workers are committed to the strike. The group includes baggage handlers, cabin cleaners, janitors, and wheelchair attendants. 

The workers are employed by private contractors, and strike leaders say many work for minimum wage.  The group hopes to organize under Service Employees International Union Local 1.  

Strike organizers say to expect delays, particularly for United and American Airlines.  However, the Chicago Department of Aviation says it doesn’t anticipate disruptions.   

The O'Hare strike is part of a nationwide campaign for higher hourly wages, including workers at other airports and fast-food employees.  Thousands also plan to walk off the job at McDonald's.