The Graduate by Hilton hotel in Southside Berkeley has become the focal point of a labor movement, as employees advocate for unionization to address concerns over wages, working conditions, and health benefits. On Friday, July 17, 2026, workers and supporters gathered to voice their demands, highlighting the challenges faced by the hotel’s approximately 40 non-management employees.
The push for unionization began on July 10, when employees submitted a petition to management, endorsed by a majority of the staff. The National Labor Relations Board has scheduled a vote for July 31, which could pave the way for the formation of a union affiliated with Unite Here Local 2.
Workers’ demands and management’s response
Union spokesperson Sonya Karabel emphasized that the workers’ primary concerns include livable wagesbetter working conditions and adequate health care coverage. “They want a wage where they can actually afford to live in Berkeley or near Berkeley,” Karabel stated, underscoring the financial struggles faced by the employees.
Eric Crawford, a front desk supervisor with nearly four years of experience at the hotel, expressed hope that management would be receptive to the workers’ demands. “It’s great working here, but I would like to have respect,” Crawford said, highlighting the importance of respect and affordable health care. He also noted that hotel workers in San Francisco typically earn more than their counterparts in Berkeley, despite the high cost of living in the area.
Irvin Garcia, a housekeeper who has worked at the hotel for four years, echoed these sentiments. “We’re human. We deserve better. There’s too much work for not [enough pay],” Garcia stated, emphasizing the need for improved treatment and compensation.
The broader context of the hospitality industry
The Graduate by Hilton Berkeley, located at 2600 Durant Ave., is part of the Schulte Hospitality Group, owned by Nashville-based AJ Capital Partners, and Hilton. The hotel, formerly known as The Durant Hotel, has close ties with nearby UC Berkeley and caters to a college-themed clientele.
The hospitality industry has faced significant challenges in recent years, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. While Berkeley has fared better than some other cities due to its college-town identity, decreased demand and rising costs have still impacted local hotels. The 378-room DoubleTree by Hilton on the waterfront, for example, stopped paying rent for its city-owned property last year and was at risk of default.
Karabel noted that the pandemic has been used as an excuse to lay off workers in recent years, but she asserted that business at Berkeley’s Graduate is strong. “UC Berkeley makes up a huge amount of its business, whether directly or indirectly,” she said, highlighting the unique position of the hotel within the community.
Community support and the path forward
The workers’ rally has garnered support from various quarters, including UC Berkeley faculty and students. Trevor Jackson, co-chair of the UC Berkeley Faculty Association, attended the protest and expressed his solidarity with the workers. “I’m a professor of history and I will tell you history is on your side,” Jackson told the picketers, emphasizing the importance of their cause.
Maricela Castro, a room attendant who has worked at the hotel for 30 years, shared her perspective on the importance of unionization. “What’s best for all of us,” Castro said. “That’s what I really want. I want to see this through because I want the best for all of us.” Castro, who earns $23 an hour, feels that she does the work of two people and is advocating for better treatment and compensation.
At least two UC Berkeley students joined the protesters, including Catherine Boland, a junior and member of Students for International Labor Solidarity. Boland emphasized the importance of supporting the workers, some of whom are students themselves. “I think it’s really crucial for students to support their community, support their workers and make sure this hotel is organized, and their rights to unionize are respected,” she said.
As the July 31 vote approaches, the workers and their supporters remain hopeful that their demands will be met. Karabel noted that the union has heard the hotel has hired a labor management consulting firm that has met with workers. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that no one threatens or intimidates employees during this process. “I think you can see that the community is standing with us and saying they should respect workers’ right to decide for themselves about whether they want a union,” Karabel concluded.
