In a determined push to reclaim their jobs, former workers of the Signature Room held a rally outside PGIM's offices in Chicago. They're pressing PGIM to ensure their re-employment when the former restaurant space atop the iconic John Hancock Building eventually reopens. Backed by a petition signed by 1,000 supporters, the workers are standing firm on the public's commitment not to patronize the space unless their jobs are restored. "I loved helping people create memories and celebrate milestones. We deserve to have the chance to return to work in the space when it reopens and bring back the spirit that made the Signature Room special," server of 25 years Bob Sorenson told Chicago Sun-Times.
These aren't employees giving up easily. To further make their case, the workers offered passersby hot cocoa outside the Prudential Building, home to the offices of PGIM, in a showcase of the hospitality they were known for. "This was my second home. I want to continue to quickly do the work I love with the co-workers who are like my family," pastry cook Irene Luna, with 29 years at Signature Room said to the Chicago Crusader.
The abrupt closure of the Signature Room on September 28 left 132 staff members without jobs and with little notice. The workers, many of whom are people of color, and have dutifully served for decades, were reportedly informed of the closure via a 6 a.m. email that morning. President of Unite Here Local 1, Karen Kent, emphasized the community’s support for these workers. "Today, the Signature Room staff and the broader community sent a clear message that these dedicated workers deserve the chance to return to their jobs when the space reopens," Kent stated in a Chicago Sun-Times interview.
In response to the establishment’s closure without proper notice, Unite Here Local 1 put into action to strongly challenge the company’s practices. They've notably filed a complaint in federal court under the WARN Act for violation of workers’ right to a 60-day notice period. Additionally, on October 16, Unite Here Local 1 filed an Unfair Labor Practice charge with the National Labor Relations Board, asserting that the management group failed to give timely notice of the restaurant's closure to allow the union to effectively bargain over the effects. If the new tenant expects a warm welcome from the city, they’ll likely need to seriously consider these workers’ plight. "We will be watching. This City will be watching," Kent told the Chicago Crusader.
