Thousands of Bay Area hotel workers participate in nationwide strike

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Thousands of Bay Area hotel workers were on strike this Labor Day. The union says the three-day labor action is about wages, health care and workload.

The workers were on the move Monday around Union Square in San Francisco.

"Today, we show the bosses how we celebrate Labor day in this city," said one rally organizer.

Two-thousand Bay Area hospitality workers walking off the job, as contract talks stall between top hotel chains like Hyatt, Hilton and Marriott and the workers' union.

Gregoria Cabrera works at the Palace Hotel, she wants better wages to support her family.

"It's expensive, transportation, food, pay the mortgage everything is expensive in California," said Cabrera.

This labor action is part of a national movement; at least 10,000 workers are striking in eight American cities, demanding what they say are record profits.

"This is an industry that's been coming back from the pandemic. They've been making profits but haven't shared any with us," said hotel worker Nicholas Javier.

MORE: More than 10,000 US hotel workers strike during Labor Day weekend

In response, Hilton Hotels said in a statement" "we remain committed to negotiating in good faith to reach fair and reasonable agreements that are beneficial to both our valued team members and to our hotels."

Hyatt told us: "We are disappointed that Unite Here has chosen to strike while Hyatt remains willing to negotiate. Hyatt Hotels have contingency plans in place to minimize impact on hotel operations related to potential strike activity."

On Monday, it appeared to be business as usual inside San Francisco's Grand Hyatt but some food amenities were not available, it's not clear if it was strike related.

Striking workers say they'll be back to work on Wednesday. The union says future strikes are possible and more cities, including Oakland.

"Our members are committed to fighting for whatever it takes to win a fair contract, we could be out on strike again," said Tapia.