Policy Order O-4

WHEREAS: In March 2013, a super-majority of workers at the non-union, Harvard-owned DoubleTree Suites just across the bridge in Allston started demanding a fair process to decide on whether to form a union; and

WHEREAS: Many workers have expressed concerns about injuries, workplace pain, poverty, and expensive healthcare, and it is for these reasons that many DoubleTree workers are seeking to hold this process; and

WHEREAS: DoubleTree workers report that there has not been an improvement in their working conditions over the course of the past year, and that is why, on March 27, 2014, these workers took the brave step of calling for a boycott of their own property; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record expressing its support for the workers of the DoubleTree Suites, and in respectfully urging the City administration and all City departments to boycott the services provided by Harvard's DoubleTree Suites; and be it further

RESOLVED: That the City Council pledges to boycott the DoubleTree Suites hotel for any future functions until its workers receive respect and dignity at work; and be it further

RESOLVED: That the City Council goes on record in urging Harvard University to agree to a fair process to decide on unionization for its workers at the Doubletree Suites; and be it further

RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Harvard University President Drew Faust on behalf of the entire City Council.