Union security officers rally in downtown San Francisco to announce the authorization of an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) strike
Security officers are protesting unfair practices on the job as they fight for a fair contract.
On September 2, union security officers from across San Francisco and Silicon Valley as well as allies and political leaders gathered at Mechanics Monument Plaza in Downtown San Francisco to announce the authorization of an Unfair Labor Practice strike.
Conditions at the bargaining table left the security officers with no choice. After months of bargaining, several multi-billion dollar security companies like Allied Universal, Securitas, GardaWorld, Prosegur, and Inter-Con, along with the other security companies, initially offered workers a mere 25 cent raise over the next four years. The companies’ most recent wage offer is still not enough for officers to make ends meet. Given the high cost of living and affordability crisis, this is unacceptable. Security officers are demanding a fair union contract that includes the wages and benefits they need to continue living and working in the Bay Area.
Security officers demand respect:
“I’ve been a security officer in this city for more than 20 years. After more than two decades doing this work, I still can’t afford a regular apartment in the city I protect. I live in a single-room occupancy building, where I rent one room and share a bathroom and kitchen with other residents,” said Jerry Longoria, an Allied Universal security officer. “Every day, security officers protect incredible wealth in this city, while thousands of us are struggling just to afford a place to live.”
“We’re asking Allied and the other security companies to stop playing games, come to the table, and settle a strong contract with real raises, better training, and respect for the officers who keep these buildings safe,” said Christopher Yates, an Allied Universal security officer who lives in Hayward. “We are ready to do whatever it takes to win our fair share as the protectors of the San Francisco Bay Areas, Silicon Valley’s and Los Angeles County’s most critical industries and communities.”
Political leaders offer their support:
“Security officers keep us safe every day. They respond to emergencies, calm down dangerous situations, and deal with some of the hardest challenges we see in our communities,” said Assemblymember Matt Haney. “We depend on them to keep people safe, and they should be able to afford to live here and support their families. These workers deserve better pay, affordable healthcare, job security, and a fair contract. I stand with them.”
“SEIU-USWW security officers guard our state’s wealthiest tech campuses, downtown skyscrapers, hospitals, entertainment studios and transit hubs. When we devalue their work through unfair wages and inadequate training, we put our security at risk,” said Supervisor Connie Chan. “I proudly stand with USWW in demanding fair pay, fair benefits, and better working conditions now.”
Select press coverage of the event:
- Business Insider: Office security workers for OpenAI, Anthropic, and other tech firms authorize a strike
- KQED 8AM Drive Time: Listen here