23 Unions Form Coalition to Organize Knott's Berry Farm Workers

The formation of the UniteKnotts Coalition by twenty-three trade unions and the Orange County Labor Federation represents a significant labor movement aimed at organizing every worker at Knott's Berry Farm. This initiative emerges in response to the park's transformation from a family-run attraction to part of an $8 billion corporate enterprise after the Cedar Fair and Six Flags merger. The coalition highlights the stark contrast between executive compensation and frontline employee wages, with many workers earning just $15–$18 per hour, which is insufficient for meeting basic living expenses in Southern California.

Chris Griswold, President of Teamsters Joint Council 42, emphasized the coalition's mission, stating that Knott's Berry Farm now prioritizes profits over people, and workers deserve fair representation, safe staffing levels, and livable wages. The UniteKnotts Coalition unites unions representing tens of thousands of workers across various industries, ensuring that all employees at the park have access to equitable pay, safe working conditions, and robust advocacy. For more details, visit https://UniteKnotts.com.

This effort is crucial as it addresses growing economic disparities in the amusement park industry, where corporate consolidation often leads to reduced labor standards. The coalition's broad base of support from multiple unions could set a precedent for similar organizing drives in other entertainment and hospitality sectors, potentially influencing wage policies and working conditions nationwide. The success of this campaign may empower workers to demand better treatment and fair compensation, challenging the status quo in large-scale corporate operations.