I feel as though this thread has gotten more hostile than it needs to be. But, there is an underlying point that the anti-tip group is making that is maybe getting lost in the noise.
Odyssey could pay better wages but doesn't. That is on Odyssey and I cannot change it.
I believe what is being communicated is that if you chose to patronize Odyssey, then you are, in fact, endorsing it. There are plenty of tour operators out there. I think that the anti-tip contingent is encouraging you to pick one that does not encourage the practice. And possibly frustrated that you don't see or maybe don't mind how your choices impact Japan.