Twenty-Three Unions Form Coalition to Organize Knott's Berry Farm Workers

Twenty-three trade unions, in collaboration with the Orange County Labor Federation, have established the UniteKnotts Coalition to organize and represent every employee at Knott's Berry Farm. This initiative emerges as the amusement park, originally a family-operated attraction, now functions as part of an $8 billion corporate entity after the merger between Cedar Fair and Six Flags.

The coalition addresses significant wage disparities, where many frontline workers, including ride operators, food service staff, and cashiers, earn between $15 and $18 per hour. These wages are often insufficient for meeting basic living expenses in the region, contrasting sharply with the multimillion-dollar compensation packages for executives. Chris Griswold, President of Teamsters Joint Council 42, emphasized the urgency of this effort, stating, "Knott's Berry Farm was built on community and hard work—but today, it's run by a corporate giant that puts profits before people. That stops now. Workers deserve a seat at the table, safe staffing levels, and wages that let them support their families."

The UniteKnotts Coalition unites unions representing tens of thousands of workers across various industries, aiming to secure fair wages, safe working conditions, and robust representation for all employees. This organizing drive could set a precedent for labor movements within the amusement and hospitality sectors, potentially influencing wage standards and unionization efforts at other theme parks and large entertainment venues. For additional details, visit https://UniteKnotts.com.

The outcome of this campaign may impact not only the workers directly involved but also broader industry practices, encouraging similar collective actions and highlighting the growing demand for equitable compensation and improved labor standards in corporate-owned recreational facilities.