Oscar Orellana, 30, paused in the shade of the InterContinental and waved back at one of the drivers who honked while passing by.
For six years, Mr. Orellana has worked in the housekeeping department at the hotel, where he ensures that linens are stocked on each floor.
His parents, too, long worked in hotel housekeeping; his father was picketing at a nearby Ritz-Carlton, he said.
“I used to see my parents, and they loved their job, which made me want to go into the hotel world, and I love my job,” he said.
They also felt caught in an awkward social position during a time when they just wanted to relax.
Persons:
Oscar Orellana, Orellana, “, ”, they’re, John Smith
Organizations:
InterContinental, Ritz, Carlton
Locations:
Long Beach, Santa Monica, San Bernardino