Congressional Democrats Pledge Boycott of D.C. Restaurants in Support of Workers' Rights
Over 50 congressional Democrats have pledged to boycott several Washington, D.C., restaurants in support of workers facing alleged union-busting tactics. The lawmakers signed a pledge from Unite Here Local 25 to boycott popular establishments like Le Diplomate, Osteria Mozza, The Occidental, Rasika, Modena, and Bombay Club. These restaurants are frequented by the Democratic power elite, with Le Diplomate being a favorite of former President Joe Biden during his time in office. Unite Here is now organizing informal picket lines outside these restaurants to show solidarity with the workers.
According to Unite Here spokesman Benjy Cannon, all the members on the boycott list are personally participating in the boycott. Many of the lawmakers have been meeting with workers from STARR and Knightsbridge, the companies that own the boycotted restaurants, throughout the year. STARR, headed by Democratic donor Stephen Starr, owns Le Diplomate, Osteria Mozza, and The Occidental, while Knightsbridge owns Rasika, Modena, and Bombay Club. The signatories of the boycott pledge come from a diverse ideological spectrum, including progressive senators like Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders, as well as more moderate Democrats.
The boycott is a show of support for workers who have allegedly faced union-busting tactics from their employers. By refusing to dine at these restaurants, the congressional Democrats are sending a message that they stand with the workers in their fight for fair treatment and labor rights. The boycott is part of a broader effort to hold businesses accountable for their treatment of employees and to advocate for better working conditions in the hospitality industry.