eCornell: Labor-Management Relations in the Midst of a Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has quickly forced closures and layoffs throughout the hospitality industry. This unprecedented and stressful situation presents a number of challenges for both workers and management. As the two sides work through key issues and potential solutions, a major unknown is whether conflict is inevitable or if the crisis will force the parties to work together.

On March 31st, at 12 p.m., Cornell University and the Center on Innovative Hospitality Labor and Employment Relations (CIHLER) will bring together leading practitioners and faculty experts to discuss the myriad labor relations challenges brought on by this historic global challenge.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

• What unions are demanding as hotels and restaurants close or lay off employees
• Management’s collective bargaining obligations
• Whether the crisis can stimulate a new spirit of cooperation between labor and management
• How management can provide assistance to unionized employees who face trauma while meeting their obligation to bargain in good faith