Aramark protest today: 48 people arrested during demonstration in Philadelphia, including workers from Unite Here Local 274

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Dozens of people were arrested at a protest rally outside Aramark’s headquarters in Philadelphia on Wednesday afternoon.

In a fight for a new collective bargaining agreement and wage increases, workers forced the closure of the Market Street Bridge between Center City and University City near Aramark headquarters.

“Right now it’s just about survival. We have to live,” said Tiffani Davis of Unite Here Local 274.

Union officials say this is part of a months-long struggle. Union members staged a four-day strike during 76ers games in April.

Davis is one of about 300 union members who stood in solidarity outside Aramark’s headquarters. They were joined by protesters from other cities, including Boston and Washington, DC.

Aramark employees at Wells Fargo Center, Citizens Bank Park and Lincoln Financial Field are demanding that company management provide family-sustaining wage increases and year-round health insurance benefits.

“We are the face of your company. We are the daily movement that keeps your work going,” Davis said.

“These workers are loyal to Aramark and we want Aramark to recognize that and treat them fairly,” added Kathy Hazel of Unite Here Local 274.

At around 5:30 p.m., Helicopter 6 was in the air when police arrested 48 people, about half of whom were members of the Philadelphia-based Unite Here union and Senator Nikil Saval, who represents the district where the stadiums and Aramark are located.

“It’s important that you put your body on the line and show that you care. And frankly, enough is enough. The company needs to come back to the negotiating table and negotiate fairly,” Saval said.

Philadelphia police said those arrested will be fined $50.

Union members hope to meet with Aramark management soon to negotiate a fair contract.

Aramark says the company will work toward a new agreement and respects workers’ right to protest.

The company issued the following statement to Action News on Wednesday:

“We respect our employees’ right to demonstrate. We have held multiple meetings with the bargaining committee to reach a new agreement, and we intend to continue working toward an agreement that works for everyone. We will remain focused on providing an outstanding fan experience for our customers and clients, and want to thank our dedicated employees across the company for their support of our ongoing contingency plans.”