We stand with the Merriweather Lakehouse Hotel workers, majority Black and brown women who want to return to their jobs after being laid off due to COVID-19.  

The hotel is scheduled to reopen in September 2021 after being closed since April 2020. Despite taking advantage of two PPP loans with the stated purpose of preserving jobs, the hotel owner and management have NOT committed to recall their workers, many of whom have dedicated decades to the property. We cannot in good conscious patronize a business that does not uphold the values of our community.

Columbia, Maryland was founded on the principles of economic and racial inclusion. As organizations concerned with the well-being of our community, we’ve booked events at the hotel over the years because workers had dignity and a voice on the job. Before the pandemic, workers earned a living wage and had benefits, making it possible for them to live and participate in the community they served.

We pledge to not spend money or attend events at the Merriweather Lakehouse Hotel until ALL laid-off workers who wish to return are rehired with their years of service and benefits intact and given the opportunity to train on any new technology or systems needed for their position.