Wayne MacManiman
Julie Karant
JKarant@seiu32bj.org
Wilmington Office
1000 N West Street, Suite 1200
Wilmington, DE 19801
Phone: 302-295-4814
 |
CONTRACT EXPIRES JANUARY 1, 2012 AT 12:01 AM
More than 400 commercial building members of 32BJ clean over 30 buildings in the greater Wilmington area. The current contract between 32BJ and commercial office building cleaning companies in Delaware expire at 12:01 on January 1, 2012.
32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
Eugenio H. Villasante: 646-285-1087
http://www.standwithbuildingworkers.org
SUBURBAN OFFICE CLEANERS RATIFY NEW 4-YEAR CONTRACT IMPROVING WAGES FOR 1,200 WORKERS
Contract to Help Boost Economy and Ensure Quality Service for Tenants
Norristown, PA – Commercial office cleaners in suburban Philadelphia have voted overwhelmingly to ratify new four-year contract covering 1,200 workers that provides cleaners with an average yearly wage increase of over 3.6%.
“This contract will help 1,200 office cleaners in suburban Philly continue to move out of poverty and have a chance at the American Dream,” said Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ Mid-Atlantic Director. “These hard-working men and women have stood up for the wages they need to support their families and our economy.”
Over the next four years, cleaners will see their average yearly pay increase from $10.80 per hour to $12.35 per hour.
Negotiations for a new contract covering more than 1,200 commercial office cleaners in suburban Philadelphia began on November 30th between 32BJ and leaders representing companies including Shellville Facility Services, Allan Industries, Inc. and Interstate Building Maintenance Corporation.
Cleaners authorized their union’s bargaining committee to call a strike, if necessary if an agreement wasn’t reached by January 16th at 12:01AM.
More than 60,000 property service workers from Hartford, Conn., to Virginia have secured new contracts that raise wage and benefit standards.
With more than 120,000 members in nine states, including 10,000 in the Philadelphia area, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.
# # #
32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Monday, January 9, 2012
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
Eugenio H. Villasante: 646-285-1087
http://www.standwithbuildingworkers.org
NEW CONTRACT FOR 1,200 OFFICE CLEANERS SECURES WAGE INCREASES FOR NEXT FOUR YEARS
Strike Averted before Expiration
Norristown, PA – The 32BJ SEIU Bargaining Committee has announced a tentative agreement on a four-year contract, subject to ratification, covering 1,200 commercial office cleaners in suburban Philadelphia that provides cleaners with an average yearly wage increase of over 3.6%. Union members must still ratify the tentative agreements.
“This is a win-win agreement that benefits businesses, workers and tenants alike,” said Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ Mid-Atlantic Director. “Helping hard-working men and women better support their families and their communities is a critical step towards our economic recovery.”
Over the next four years, cleaners will see their average yearly pay increase from $10.80 per hour to $12.35 per hour.
Negotiations for a new contract covering more than 1,200 commercial office cleaners in suburban Philadelphia began on November 30th between 32BJ and leaders representing companies including Shellville Facility Services, Allan Industries, Inc. and Interstate Building Maintenance Corporation.
Cleaners authorized their union’s bargaining committee to call a strike, if necessary if an agreement wasn’t reached by January 16th at 12:01AM.
More than 60,000 property service workers from Hartford, Conn., to Virginia have secured new contracts that raise wage and benefit standards.
With more than 120,000 members in nine states, including 10,000 in the Philadelphia area, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.
# # #
|
RATIFICATION VOTE |
By standing strong, we made important gains in our new 4-year contract. Your 32BJ Bargaining Committee has reached a tentative agreement with Delaware’s cleaning contractors that includes pay raises and benefit improvements.
32BJ members must vote to ratify the agreement in order for it to be the new contract. Your Bargaining Committee is recommending you vote YES!
Ratification vote will be on:
Saturday, January 7, 2012 • 11 am
St. Paul’s Church
4th and Jackson Streets, Wilmington DE
Come to the Ratification for all the details about the new contract – and to vote!
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
Eugenio H. Villasante: 646-285-1087
MEDIA ADVISORY FOR:
10 AM – 12:30 PM, Thursday, December 29, 2011
OFFICE CLEANERS PREPARE TO STRIKE AS CONTRACT EXPIRATION NEARS
More than 100 Office Cleaners to Rally at King of Prussia on Saturday
King of Prussia, PA – More than 100 suburban office cleaners will take to the streets outside King of Prussia on Saturday, December 31st in preparation to strike, if necessary to reach a fair agreement. 32BJ SEIU and leaders representing the area’s major commercial office building owners, managers, and cleaning companies remain far apart on negotiations for a contract set to expire on January 16th at 12:01AM.
WHAT: Interviews before Saturday strike preparation rally
WHO: 32BJ Leaders and office cleaners
WHEN: 10 AM – 12:30 PM, Thursday, December 29, 2011
“Nobody wants a strike, but cleaners are ready and prepared to do what it takes to protect good jobs for our communities,” said Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ Mid-Atlantic Director. “These hard-working men and women deserve family-sustaining wages that are vital to strengthening our economy.”
Wages for part-time workers are only $10.80 per hour ($11,232.00 annually). The federal poverty line for a family of four in the United States is $22,350 annually. Negotiations for a new contract covering more than 1,200 commercial office cleaners in suburban Philadelphia began on November 30th between 32BJ and leaders representing companies including Shellville Facility Services, Allan Industries, Inc., and Professional Building Services, Inc.
More than 60,000 property service workers from Hartford, Conn., to Virginia are united in a campaign to secure new contracts that raise wage and benefit standards.
With more than 120,000 members in nine states, including 10,000 in the Philadelphia area, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.
# # #
Only 7 days remain before the expiration of the contract covering thousands of office cleaners in Hartford & New Haven, Conn., New Jersey, and New York City. These contracts expire on January 1, 2012 at 12:01 am.
We are also in contract talks for the Philadelphia Suburbs which expire on January 16, 2012 at 12:01 am.
We have a tentative agreement for Delaware Office Cleaners and Fairfield County, Conn. & Hudson Valley Office Cleaners.
What can you do?
Only 8 days remain before the expiration of the contract covering thousands of office cleaners in New York City, Hudson Valley, Connecticut, and New Jersey.
We have a tentative agreement for Delaware Office Cleaners.
What can you do?
Only 9 days remain before the expiration of the contract covering thousands of office cleaners in New York City, Hudson Valley, Connecticut, New Jersey, and Delaware.
What can you do?
32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
Eugenio Villasante: 646-285-1087
www.standwithbuildingworkers.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
NEW CONTRACT FOR OFFICE CLEANERS SECURES WAGE INCREASES FOR NEXT FOUR YEARS
Strike Averted before Expiration
Wilmington, DE – The 32BJ SEIU Bargaining Committee has announced tentative agreement on a four-year contract, subject to ratification, covering more than 450 commercial office cleaners in Delaware that provide cleaners with an average yearly wage increase of 5%. Union members must still ratify the tentative agreements.
“This is a win-win agreement that benefits businesses, workers and tenants alike,” said Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ Mid-Atlantic Director. “Helping hard-working men and women better support their families and our economy is an investment to secure the future for all Delawareans.”
Over the next four years, cleaners in Wilmington will see their average yearly pay increase from $8.70 per hour to $10.40 per hour.
32BJ members clean prominent buildings in Wilmington including the Bank of America Building, the DuPont Building, Brandywine Building, Chase Manhattan Center, Citizens Bank Center, and I. M. Pei Building.
Negotiations began on November 15th between 32BJ and top cleaning contractors such as ABM Industries, Inc., Bravo Building Services, and GCA Services Group. The contract was set to expire at 12:01 AM on January 1, 2012.
More than 60,000 property service workers from Hartford, Conn., to Virginia are united in a campaign to secure new contracts that raise wage and benefit standards.
With more than 120,000 members in nine states, including 10,000 in Philadelphia and Delaware, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.
# # #
Only 10 days remain before the expiration of the contract covering thousands of office cleaners in New York City, Hudson Valley, Connecticut, New Jersey, and Delaware.
What can you do?
Members of our union, 32BJ SEIU, are standing together for good jobs. More than 60,000 property service workers in seven states are united in a campaign to secure new contracts that raise wage and benefit standards.
Workers in Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Montgomery County, MD, Northern Virginia, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh have already negotiated new agreements that protect decent pay and benefit standards. Tentative agreements have been reached in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Delaware, as well as Fairfield County, Conn. and Hudson Valley.
Tentative Agreements for:
• Delaware - Tentative Agreement Announced
• Fairfield County, Conn. & Hudson Valley – Tentative Agreement Announced
• New Jersey – Tentative Agreement Announced
• Hartford & New Haven, Conn. – Tentative Agreement Announced
• New York City – Tentative Agreement Announced
Contracts talks in the Philadelphia suburbs have been extended with a contract deadline on January 16, 2012 at 12:01 am.
• Philadelphia Suburbs – Expires January 16, 2012 at 12:01 am
With more than 120,000 members in nine states, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.
32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Thursday, December 15, 2011
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Eugenio H. Villasante: 646-285-1087
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
OFFICE CLEANERS EXTEND CONTRACT FOR 31 DAYS, CHANCE OF STRIKE REMAINS
1,200 Office Cleaners Could Walk Off Their Jobs if Agreement Not Reached
by January 16, 2012
Norristown, PA – In a concerted effort to reach a fair agreement and avoid a strike that would inconvenience suburban Philadelphia, the property service workers union, 32BJ and leaders representing the area’s major commercial office building owners, managers, and cleaning companies are extending contract negotiations for 31 more days.
However, since the two sides remain far apart, cleaners authorized their union’s bargaining committee to call a strike, if necessary if an agreement is not reached by January 16th at 12:01AM.
“Nobody wants a strike, but cleaners are ready to do what it takes to protect good jobs for our communities,” said Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ Mid-Atlantic Director. “These hard-working men and women deserve family-sustaining wages that are vital to strengthening our economy.”
Wages for part-time workers are only $10.80 per hour ($11,232.00 annually). The federal poverty line for a family of four in the United States is $22,350 annually.
Negotiations for a new contract covering more than 1,200 commercial office cleaners in suburban Philadelphia began on November 30th between 32BJ and leaders representing companies including Shellville Facility Services, Allan Industries, Inc., and Professional Building Services, Inc.
Several bright spots indicate that the office market in suburban Philadelphia is on the upswing. For example, leasing activity is improving, rents are on the rise, vacancy is declining, and many new office renovation projects are near completion.
More than 60,000 property service workers from Hartford, Conn., to Virginia are united in a campaign to secure new contracts that raise wage and benefit standards.
With more than 120,000 members in nine states, including 10,000 in the Philadelphia area, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.For more information: www.standwithbuildingworkers.org
# # #
Emiliano Ortiz, Office Cleaner (Wilmington, DE)
“I clean Chase Bank but struggle to support my family.”
–Emiliano Ortiz,
Office Cleaner, Wilmington, DE
Emiliano works hard every day cleaning bathrooms and board rooms at Chase Bank in Wilmington. And while Chase Bank made over $17 billion last year, Emiliano makes just $8.70 an hour working for Chase’s cleaning contractor.
Download the Advertisement [PDF]
We must act now to defend our jobs and to stop the senseless attacks on working people. Every 32BJ member must be involved in this fight to show all employers that we are united: If they come after some of us, they take on all of us.
Want to find out how you can get more involved? Learn more about volunteering.
| New York, NY | |
Newark, NJ Strike Vote & Rally Thur, Dec 15 |
|
White Plains, NY Strike Vote & Rally Thur, Dec 15 |
|
Stamford, CT Strike Vote & Rally Thur, Dec 15 |
|
Hartford, CT Strike Vote & Rally Thur, Dec 15 |
32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Monday, December 5, 2011
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
Eugenio H. Villasante: 646-285-1087
COMMUNITY LEADER STANDS WITH OFFICE CLEANERS, URGES INDUSTRY LEADERS TO AVOID A STRIKe
Cleaners Announce Authorization to Strike if Necessary to Protect Good Jobs
Norristown, PA – Carmen Guerrero, of the Latino advocacy group, Alianza took a stand for 1,200 of the region’s office cleaners, calling on industry leaders to agree to a fair contract for the workers and avoid a strike. The group marched through Norristown on Saturday, directly after cleaners voted to authorize their union’s bargaining committee to call a strike, if necessary. The contract is set to expire at 12:01 AM on December 16, 2011.
“Industry should create the kind of family-sustaining jobs necessary to boost our economy,” said Carmen Guerrero with Alianza, a Latino advocacy group based in Norristown. “These hard-working cleaners have Alianza’s full support to get what they deserve to support their communities.”
Wages for part-time workers are only $10.80 per hour ($11,232.00 annually). The federal poverty line for a family of four in the United States is $22,350 annually.
“The men and women who do back-breaking work to keep our offices safe and clean deserve to be able to put food on the table and pay the bills, said Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ Mid-Atlantic Director. “Our strike vote shows we’re determined to keep the good jobs that are the lifeblood of suburban Philadelphia.”
Negotiations for a new contract covering more than 1,200 commercial office cleaners in suburban Philadelphia began on November 30th between 32BJ and leaders representing the area’s major commercial office building owners, managers, and cleaning companies such as Shellville Facility Services, Allan Industries, Inc., and Professional Building Services, Inc.
“The cost of living keeps going up but our wages don’t,” said Arnold Avila, an office cleaner and father of three working in King of Prussia. “It’s hard to keep up. We need raises so we can pay the bills.” Avila who earns just $10.60 per hour, works two jobs to make ends meet.
Several bright spots indicate that the office market in suburban Philadelphia is on the upswing. For example, leasing activity is improving, rents are on the rise, vacancy is declining, and many new office renovation projects are near completion.
More than 60,000 property service workers from Hartford, Conn., to Virginia are united in a campaign to secure new contracts that raise wage and benefit standards.
With more than 120,000 members in nine states, including 7,000 in Philadelphia, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.
# # #
32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
Eugenio Villasante: 646-285-1087
http://www.standwithbuildingworkers.org/
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 30, 2011
CONTRACT TALKS OPEN FOR OVER 1,200 SUBURBAN PHILADELPHIA OFFICE CLEANERS
Union Proposals Focus on Fair Wage Increases as Office Market Strengthens
Philadelphia, PA – Negotiations for a new union contract covering more than 1,200 commercial office cleaners in suburban Philadelphia began on Friday between 32BJ and representatives of the real estate industry. 32BJ presented its contract proposals to leaders representing the area’s major commercial office building owners, managers, and cleaning companies such as Shellville Facility Services, Allan Industries, Inc., and Professional Building Services, Inc. The contract is set to expire at 12:01 AM on December 16, 2011.
“Ensuring the men and women who keep our offices safe and clean receive family-sustaining wages is both fair and critical to strengthening our economy,” said Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ Mid-Atlantic Director. “The multi-million dollar real estate industry can afford to give hard-working cleaners the raise they deserve, and ensure that tenants receive the professional service they want.”
Wages for part-time workers are only $10.80 per hour ($11,232.00 annually). The federal poverty line for a family of four in the United States is $22,350 annually.
“The cost of living keeps going up but our wages don’t,” said Arnold Avila, an office cleaner and father of three working in King of Prussia. “It’s hard to keep up. We need raises so we can pay the bills.” Avila who earns just $10.60 per hour, works two jobs to make ends meet.
Several bright spots indicate that the office market in suburban Philadelphia is on the upswing. For example, leasing activity is improving, rents are on the rise, vacancy is declining, and many new office renovation projects are near completion.
More than 60,000 property service workers from Hartford, Conn., to Virginia are united in a campaign to secure new contracts that raise wage and benefit standards.
With more than 120,000 members in nine states, including 7,000 in Philadelphia, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.
# # #
32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
Eugenio Villasante: 646-285-1087
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTRACT TALKS OPEN FOR 450 DELAWARE OFFICE CLEANERS
Union Proposals Focus on Fair Wage Increases as Office Market Strengthens
Wilmington, DE – Negotiations for a new union contract covering 450 commercial office cleaners in Delaware began on Friday between 32BJ SEIU and Delaware’s major commercial cleaning companies such as ABM Industries, Inc., Bravo Building Services, and GCA Services Group. 32BJ members clean prominent buildings in Wilmington including the DuPont Building, Brandywine Building, Chase Manhattan Center, Citizens Bank Center, and I. M. Pei Building. The contract is set to expire at 12:01 AM on January 1, 2012.
“We offered realistic proposals to ensure hard-working men and women receive the livable wages critical to supporting their families and strengthening our economy,” said Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ Mid-Atlantic Director. “The multi-billion dollar real estate industry can afford to give workers better than poverty-like wages and to ensure that tenants receive the professional service they want.”
More than half of the Fortune 500 companies are incorporated in Delaware, where wages for part-time workers are only $8.70 per hour ($9,048.00 annually). The federal poverty line for a family of four in the United States is $22,350 annually. With declining vacancy rates and rents on the rise, the commercial office market in Northern Delaware counties remains among the strongest in the metro area according to according to Marcus & Millichap.
“We work hard every day cleaning taking the trash out in this big bank,” said Emiliano Ortiz a cleaner of 5 years working at the Chase building. “We need a fair raise, our wages are not enough to support our families.” Ortiz who earns just $8.70 per hour, works two jobs to support his family.
More than 60,000 property service workers from Hartford, Conn., to Virginia are united in a campaign to secure new contracts that raise wage and benefit standards.
With more than 120,000 members in nine states, including 7,450 in Philadelphia and Delaware, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.
For more information, visit www.StandWithBuildingWorkers.org .
# # #
32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Eugenio H. Villasante: 212-539-2940
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, October 24, 2011
Improved Wages will Help Boost Economy
Philadelphia, PA — By a unanimous vote, Philadelphia’s commercial building service workers have ratified a new four-year contract covering more than 2,600 workers that will provide an average cumulative pay increase of nearly 7 percent and a $600 bonus the first year. The 32BJ Bargaining Committee reached the agreement on October 18th with the Building Owners Labor Relations, Inc. (BOLR), an organization representing Philadelphia’s major commercial office building owners, managers, and cleaning companies such as ABM Industries, Inc., The Arthur Jackson Company, and Shellville Facility Services.
“The new contract is not just an important victory for building workers and working families, but for our economy and our city,” said Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ Mid-Atlantic Director. “In these tough times the workers who keep Philadelphia’s top corporate offices clean and maintained have stood up for the good middle class jobs our economy needs.”
The four-year agreement improves wages and maintains employer paid health care and pension.
“These are the kind of good jobs that our communities and our country need to keep our middle class strong,” said Valarie Long, 32BJ Vice President. “This victory sends a message to the top 1%: The 99% still believe in the American Dream.”
Philadelphia property service workers maintain corporate offices in Philadelphia, including Liberty Place, the Comcast Center and Commerce Square.
“I am happy for this agreement,” said Angel Castro who has been working in Center City for more than 11 years. “Our victory is going to inspire a lot folks out there who are looking for ways to work together and make this economy work for all.”
More than 60,000 property service workers from Hartford, Conn., to Virginia are united in a campaign to secure new contracts that raise wage and benefit standards.
With more than 120,000 members in nine states, including 7,000 in Philadelphia, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.
For more information, visit www.StandWithBuildingWorkers.org
###
Over 14,000 Philadelphia and Capital Area office building cleaners won new contracts this week that raise pay, keep health care secure, and improve protections against unfair workloads and cuts to hours of work.
But it’s not over, until it’s over for everybody!
Leaders of the real industry that make part of America’s richest 1% want to push back our pay, benefits and rights on the job.
We, the 99%, will not stand for anything less than the good jobs that our families and communities count on to realize the American Dream.
Our fight for fair contracts for office building cleaners continues through the rest of 2011. Together we will win strong contracts that defend good jobs for all!
|
RATIFICATION VOTE |
English Flier: Philly Tentative Agreement
WE STOOD UP TO PHILLY’S REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY – AND WE WON!
Across the country, employers have cut pay and benefits and attacked workers’ rights. We did not let that happen here. Employers tried to divide us by insisting that building engineers be allowed to cross our picket lines if we’d had to strike: We fought that back and stayed together.
By standing strong, we defended some of the last good service-sector jobs in our city.
LAST NIGHT, WE WON A NEW 4-YEAR AGREEMENT THAT INCLUDES:
Download Flier:
Last night, 32BJ Bargaining Committee announced a tentative agreement on a four-year contract, subject to ratification, covering more than 2,600 of Philadelphia’s building service workers that provide wage increases and maintains employer-paid health care coverage.
News round-up:
“This victory sends a message to the top 1%. The 99% still believe in the American Dream.” — Valarie Long, Vice President 32BJ (Quoted in NBC Philly Online, 10/19/2011)
Clips:
32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Eugenio H. Villasante 646 285 1087
Julie Karant 646 584 9001
PHILADELPHIA BUILDING SERVICE WORKERS AVERT STRIKE AND REACH NEW CONTRACT PROTECTING MORE THAN 2,600 GOOD JOBS
– New Contract Provides Raises and Maintains Healthcare-
SEIU 32BJ members rally in downtown Philly for good jobs. Philadelphia (September 28, 2011) - Photo by Dave Sanders.
Philadelphia, PA— The 32BJ Bargaining Committee tonight announced a tentative agreement on a four-year contract, subject to ratification, covering more than 2,600 of Philadelphia’s building service workers that provide wage increases and maintains employer-paid health care coverage. Over the next four years, the workers will receive an average cumulative pay increase of nearly 7 percent and a $600 bonus the first year.
“The new contract is not just an important victory for building workers and working families, but for our economy and our city,” said Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ Mid-Atlantic Director. “In these tough times the workers who keep Philadelphia’s top corporate offices clean and maintained have stood up for the good middle class jobs our economy needs.”
The four-year agreement improves wages and maintains employer paid health care and pension. Union members must still ratify the tentative agreement.
“These are the kind of good jobs that our communities and our country need to keep our middle class strong,” said Valarie Long, 32BJ Vice President. “This victory sends a message to the top 1%: The 99% still believe in the American Dream.”
Philadelphia property service workers maintain corporate offices in Philadelphia, including Liberty Place, the Comcast Center and Commerce Square.
“I am happy for this agreement,” said Angel Castro who has been working in Center City for more than 11 years. “Our victory is going to inspire a lot folks out there who are looking for ways to work together and make this economy work for all.”
The agreement was reached on October 18th at 11:00pm between the building service workers union 32BJ and the Building Owners Labor Relations, Inc. (BOLR), an organization representing Philadelphia’s major commercial office building owners, managers, and cleaning companies such as ABM Industries, Inc., The Arthur Jackson Company, and Shellville Facility Services.
More than 60,000 property service workers from Hartford, Conn., to Virginia are united in a campaign to secure new contracts that raise wage and benefit standards.
With more than 120,000 members in nine states, including 7,000 in Philadelphia, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.
For more information, visit www.StandWithBuildingWorkers.org
Philadelphia Contract Rally and March!
2:00 PM on Monday, Oct 17
2:00 PM on Tuesday, Oct 17
Meet at 15th and JFK, northwest corner of City Hall.
Wear purple!
32BJ of the Service Employees International Union
Media Advisory For:
Saturday, October 15, 2011 at 2:30 PM
For More Information:
Eugenio H. Villasante: 212 539 2940
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
BUILDING SERVICE WORKERS ONE STEP CLOSER TO STRIKE
– More than 2,600 Office Cleaners Could Walk Off Their Jobs if Agreement Not Reached
by October 19th at 12:01 AM –
Philadelphia, PA —Preparing for a possible strike that could paralyze Center City, 32BJ, the building service workers union will be holding a strike prep meeting on setting up picket lines at more than 100 buildings throughout Philadelphia, including Liberty Place, the Comcast Center, and Commerce Square. If an agreement is not reached by October 19th at 12:01AM more than 2,600 property service workers could walk out of their jobs.
Negotiations for a new union contract covering more than 2,600 property service workers in Philadelphia began on September 9th between 32BJ and representatives of the real estate industry. 32BJ presented its contract proposals to leaders of Building Owners Labor Relations, Inc. (BOLR), an organization representing Philadelphia’s major commercial office building owners, managers, and cleaning companies such as ABM Industries, Inc., The Arthur Jackson Company, and Shellville Facility Services.
| VISUAL: | Workers making STRIKE signs as they prepare for a possible work stoppage. |
| WHAT: | Strike Captains Meeting at 32BJ Union Office in Downtown Philadelphia. |
| WHEN: | Saturday, October 15 at 2:30 pm |
| WHERE: | 42 S. 15th St., Suite 200, Philadelphia |
| WHO: | Philadelphia’s building service workers. |
With more than 120,000 members in eight states, including 7,000 in Philadelphia, 32BJ is the largest property services union in the country.
# # #
32BJ of the Service Employees International Union
For Immediate Release:
October 14, 2011
For More Information:
Eugenio H. Villasante: 212 539 2940
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
BUILDING SERVICE WORKERS EXTEND TALKS 3 DAYS, CHANCE OF STRIKE REMAINS
– More than 2,600 Office Cleaners Could Walk Off Their Jobs if Agreement Not Reached by October 19th at 12:01 AM –
Philadelphia, PA –In a concerted effort to reach a fair agreement and avoid a strike that would inconvenience the city of Philadelphia the property service workers union, 32BJ and the Building Owners Labor Relations, Inc. (BOLR), are extending contract negotiations for 3 more days.
However, since the two sides remain far apart, the union will be holding strike prep meetings this Saturday on setting up picket lines at more than 100 buildings throughout Center City , including Liberty Place, the Comcast Center, and Commerce Square if an agreement is not reached by October 19th at 12:01AM.
“Nobody wants a strike, but we’re ready to do what it takes to get workers what they need,” said Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ Mid-Atlantic Director. “Working families need wages that keep pace with the city’s high cost of living.”
Negotiations for a new union contract covering more than 2,600 property service workers in Philadelphia began on September 9th between 32BJ and representatives of the real estate industry. 32BJ presented its contract proposals to leaders of Building Owners Labor Relations, Inc. (BOLR), an organization representing Philadelphia’s major commercial office building owners, managers, and cleaning companies such as ABM Industries, Inc., The Arthur Jackson Company, and Shellville Facility Services.
More than 60,000 property service workers from Hartford, Conn., to Virginia are united in a campaign to secure new contracts that raise wage and benefit standards.
With more than 120,000 members in nine states, including 7,000 in Philadelphia, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.
For more information, visit www.standwithbuildingworkers.org .
###
32BJ of the Service Employees International Union
For Immediate Release:
October 14, 2011
For More Information:
Eugenio H. Villasante: 212 539 2940
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
PROPERTY SERVICE WORKERS GET READY FOR A POSSIBLE STRIKE
– More than 2,600 Corporate Office Cleaners Could Walk Off Their Jobs if Agreement Not Reached by Midnight Saturday –
Philadelphia, PA – More than 2,600 property service workers who maintain corporate offices in Philadelphia, including Liberty Place, the Comcast Center, and Commerce Square, are moving closer to a possible walkout, with strike-planning meetings scheduled Saturday. Strike captains have meanwhile been trained to provide instruction on setting up picket lines at more than 100 buildings throughout Center City if an agreement is not reached by Saturday, October 15th at midnight.
“Nobody wants a strike, but we’re committed and ready to do what it takes to get workers what they need,” said Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ Mid-Atlantic Director. “Working families need wages that keep pace with the city’s high cost of living.”
Negotiations for a new union contract covering more than 2,600 property service workers in Philadelphia began on September 9th between 32BJ and representatives of the real estate industry. 32BJ presented its contract proposals to leaders of Building Owners Labor Relations, Inc. (BOLR), an organization representing Philadelphia’s major commercial office building owners, managers, and cleaning companies such as ABM Industries, Inc., The Arthur Jackson Company, and Shellville Facility Services.
“We offered realistic proposals to ensure hardworking men and women receive the wages critical to supporting their families and strengthening our economy,” MacManiman said. “The city’s multibillion dollar real estate industry can afford to give low-wage workers the raise they deserve, and ensure that tenants receive the professional service they want.”
Wages range from just over $12 per hour and up based on job duties. Workers receive paid holidays and after one year of service, paid vacation and personal days. The federal poverty line for a family of four in the United States is $22,350 annually.
The city’s downtown commercial office market is seeing stabilized rents and decreasing vacancies. Additionally, employment, rents, and construction are forecasted to increase.
More than 60,000 property service workers from Hartford, Conn., to Virginia are united in a campaign to secure new contracts that raise wage and benefit standards.
With more than 120,000 members in nine states, including 7,000 in Philadelphia, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.
For more information, visit www.standwithbuildingworkers.org .
###
32BJ of the Service Employees International Union
For Immediate Release:
October 12, 2011
For More Information:
Eugenio H. Villasante: 212 539 2940
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
COUNCIL MEMBERS URGE INDUSTRY LEADERS TO AVOID A STRIKE AS CONTRACT EXPIRATION DATE LOOMS
– Philadelphia Council Members Pledge Support for Fair Contract for 2,600 Office Cleaners –
Philadelphia, PA – Members of the Philadelphia City Council including Maria Quinonez and Curtis Jones joined community and labor allies in taking a stand today for nearly 2,600 of the Philadelphia office cleaners who run landmark Center City buildings such as Liberty Place, the Comcast Center and Commerce Square. The elected officials called on industry leaders to agree to a fair contract and avoid a strike that could hurt the city. Philadelphia’s office cleaners voted two weeks ago to authorize their union’s bargaining committee to call a strike, if necessary, when their contract expires at 12:01 AM on October 16th.
“As the real estate market appears to be rebounding, building owners, investors and those who work hard to maintain those buildings should be able to share in that prosperity,” said Councilwoman Maria Quinonez.
Councilwoman Quinonez spoke at a briefing on good jobs attended by hundreds of 32BJ SEIU members who clean prominent buildings in downtown Philadelphia.
Negotiations for a new union contract covering more than 2,600 property service workers in Philadelphia began on September 8th between 32BJ and representatives of the real estate industry. 32BJ has presented its contract proposals to leaders of Building Owners Labor Relations, Inc. (BOLR), an organization representing Philadelphia’s major commercial office building owners, managers, and cleaning companies such as ABM Industries, Inc., The Arthur Jackson Company, and Shellville Facility Services.
“The city’s multibillion-dollar real estate industry can afford to give low-wage workers the raise they deserve, and ensure that tenants receive the professional, high-quality service they want,” said Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ Mid-Atlantic Director said.
The city’s downtown commercial office market is seeing stabilized rents and decreasing vacancies. Additionally, employment, rents, and construction are forecasted to increase.
“A good, fair contract will provide working families with what they need, boost our economy, and generate much-needed tax revenue for local governments,” said Mike Fishman, 32BJ President. “Our campaign for good jobs is part of a national effort to rebuild the middle class, restore the economy, and reclaim the American Dream for millions of families.”
Wages for property service workers under the contract are $12 per hour and up based on job duties. Workers receive paid holidays and after one year of service get paid vacation and personal days. The federal poverty line for a family of four in the United States is $22,350 annually.
“I’ve got two kids in college, a mortgage to pay and groceries,” said Angel Castro , a cleaner and father of three working in Center City. “I’m struggling like many people here every day.”
Property service workers in Philadelphia are among more than 60,000 from Hartford, Conn., to Virginia who are united in a campaign to secure new contracts that raise wage and benefit standards.
With more than 120,000 members in eight states, including 7,000 in Philadelphia, 32BJ is the largest property services union in the country.
For more information, visit www.standwithbuildingworkers.org .
# # #
These events coincides with the expiration this fall of contracts for more than 60,000 office cleaners from Hartford to Washington, DC.
Philadelphia, PA
3:30 PM – City Chambers and a rally will follow outside City Hall
Washington, DC
4:30 PM – Farragut Square Park (17th and K Streets)
In an effort to spotlight the need for good jobs and to restore fairness to the economy, hundreds of office cleaners, along with elected leaders, union supporters and groups such as the Occupy Wall Street protesters will march and rally Wednesday.
In Philadelphia, the current contract between 32BJ and the Building Owners Labor Relations, Inc. (BOLR), an organization representing Philadelphia’s major commercial office building owners, managers, and cleaning companies, expires at 12:01AM on October 16, 2011.
In the Washington, DC area, contracts covering 10,000 office building cleaners including in Washington, D.C., Montgomery County, Northern Virginia and Baltimore expire at 12:01AM on October 16, 2011.
CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS TO SIGN “GOOD JOBS, STRONG COMMUNITIES” PLEDGE TO URGE INDUSTRY LEADERS TO AVOID A STRIKE
Contract for 2,600 Office Cleaners expires at 12:01 AM on October 16th.
Philadelphia, PA – Members of the Philadelphia City Council including Maria Quinonez and Curtis Jones and community and labor allies will take a stand for the nearly 2,600 office cleaners who maintain landmark Center City buildings such as Liberty Place, the Comcast Center and Commerce Square, calling on industry leaders to agree to a fair contract for the workers and avoid a strike that could hurt the city.
On September 28th, Philadelphia’s office cleaners voted to authorize their union’s bargaining committee to call a strike, if necessary, when their contract expires at 12:01 AM on October 16th.
WHAT: Elected Officials Sign Pledge in Support of Good Jobs- March and Rally for a Fair Contract
WHO:
Councilwoman Maria Quinones Sanchez
Councilwoman Marian Tasco
Councilman Bill Green
Councilman Bill Greenlee
Councilman Wilson Goode
Councilman Curtis Jones
Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown
Hundreds of workers and allies
Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ’s Mid-Atlantic Director
WHEN: Wednesday, October 12, 2011
at 3:00 PM
WHERE: City Chambers and a rally will follow outside City Hall
With more than 120,000 members in eight states, including 7,000 in Philadelphia, 32BJ is the largest property services union in the country.
In an effort to spotlight the need for good jobs and to restore fairness to the economy, hundreds of office cleaners, along with elected leaders, union supporters and groups such as the Occupy Wall Street protesters will march and rally Wednesday.
Philadelphia, PA
3:30 PM – City Chambers and a rally will follow outside City Hall
Washington, DC
4:30 PM – Farragut Square Park (17th and K Streets)
These events coincides with the expiration this fall of contracts for more than 60,000 office cleaners from Hartford to Washington, DC.
In Philadelphia, the current contract between 32BJ and the Building Owners Labor Relations, Inc. (BOLR), an organization representing Philadelphia’s major commercial office building owners, managers, and cleaning companies, expires at 12:01AM on October 16, 2011.
In the Washington, DC area, contracts covering 10,000 office building cleaners including in Washington, D.C., Montgomery County, Northern Virginia and Baltimore expire at 12:01AM on October 16, 2011.
A message from Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ Mid-Atlantic District Area Leader:
Our contract expires in 9 days. This is a critical time in our fight to win a new agreement that defends good jobs.
Please join 32BJ President Mike Fishman and me on the phone on Thursday, October 13 at 2:30 pm for up-to-date news on contract negotiations. Every 32BJ member of the Mid-Atlantic District is invited to participate in this call. It’s for members only. We will discuss 32BJ’s unionwide contract fight, give an update from the Philadelphia bargaining table, talk about what happens if there’s a strike and answer questions
We’re keeping up the pressure for a fair contract. Last week, our march and strike vote sent a message to employers: We are united and standing strong to defend good jobs. This week, we are wearing stickers to remind employers of our resolve.
Your energy and involvement make all the difference in this fight. Stay informed and involved in these important days. Click here for details about the call on Thursday, October 13 at 2:30 pm. It’ll be available in English, Spanish and Polish.
Check out this video from the rally in Philadelphia last week (09/28/2011).
Speakers include:
| Mike Fishman President 32BJ SEIU Valarie Long Vice President 32BJ SEIU Juanita Acree 32BJ SEIU Member – Philadelphia Wayne MacManiman 32BJ SEIU Mid-Atlantic District Director Cheryl Adams 32BJ SEIU Member – Philadelphia Rosa Cox 32BJ SEIU Member – New York Carlos Ramos 32BJ SEIU Member – New Jersey Frederick R. Deas 32BJ SEIU Member – Philadelphia Jose Regalado 32BJ SEIU Member – New Jersey Rodrigo Mendez 32BJ SEIU Member – New York Jacinto Quinonez 32BJ SEIU Member – New Jersey Patricia Arcila-Cabrera 32BJ SEIU Staff – New Jersey |
Jim Bird 32BJ SEIU Member – Pittsburgh Sara Pastorelli 32BJ SEIU Member – Connecticut Ana Rodriguez 32BJ SEIU Member – New York Tony McIntosh 32BJ SEIU Member – New York Safet Lukolic 32BJ SEIU Member – New York Maria Ruiz 32BJ SEIU Member – New York Clara Castillo 32BJ SEIU Member – Washington, DC U.S. Rep. Bob Brady Pennsylvania’s First District Robert Tucker 32BJ SEIU Member – Philadelphia Kevin Doyle Executive Vice President 32BJ SEIU Mary Kay Henry SEIU International President Hector Figueroa Secretary Treasurer 32BJ SEIU |
Philadelphia, PA (9/28/2011) – Thousands of property service workers from Philadelphia, New York, New Jersey, the Washington, D.C.-area, Connecticut and Delaware, rallied downtown last week to call for a fair contract in Philadelphia. They were joined by Rep. Bob Brady (D-Pa.) and President of the Service Employees International Union, Mary Kay Henry. Contract negotiations are underway for more than 2,600 building cleaners in Philadelphia, who are fighting for a fair wage increase and secure benefits.
More interviews:
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
2,000 members of 32BJ marched in the streets of Philadelphia yesterday demanding fair contracts and good jobs. Click here to see photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/32bj/sets/72157627782061910/ .
We came from New York City and the Hudson Valley, New Jersey, the Washington, D.C.-area, Connecticut, Delaware and Western Pennsylvania to join with Philly members because we are one union united in one fight.
The first wave in our campaign is Philadelphia, the D.C. area and Pittsburgh, where contracts expire in October. Our march told employers in every 32BJ city that we will stand together in these cities — and everywhere — until we win good, strong contracts for all 60,000 32BJ commercial office cleaners, janitors and building service workers.
Mary Kay Henry, president of the SEIU, joined us yesterday in Philadelphia for the march. Our fight is part of a much larger campaign for all property service workers. Contracts expire for more than 150,000 SEIU janitors across the country in the next year. We all share the same goal: To defend good jobs that support our families, strengthen our communities and get our economy on track. SEIU members rallied in 22 cities yesterday to send this message nationwide.
Yesterday was exciting — and important. I urge you to stay involved as we fight on. Our success depends on our solidarity, our resolve — and our action.
Yours in solidarity,
Mike Fishman, 32BJ President
32BJ of SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2011
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Eugenio H. Villasante 646 285 1087
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
Maia Davis 201-396-4444
THOUSANDS OF PROPERTY SERVICE WORKERS RALLY FOR GOOD JOBS
- Philadelphia Cleaners Vote to Authorize Strike -
- Rep. Brady Joins Rally; Property Service Workers Rally in 21 Other Cities Across the Country -
Philadelphia, PA – Thousands of property service workers from Philadelphia, New York, New Jersey, the Washington, D.C.-area, Connecticut and Delaware, rallied downtown today to call for a fair contract in Philadelphia. They were joined by Rep. Bob Brady (D-Pa.) and President of the Service Employees International Union, Mary Kay Henry. Contract negotiations are underway for more than 2,600 building cleaners in Philadelphia, who are fighting for a fair wage increase and secure benefits.
Following the rally, the Philadelphia property service workers voted to give their bargaining committee the power to call for a strike, if necessary. A strike, if one occurs, could affect more than 100 buildings, including Liberty Tower, Comcast Center and Commerce Square. The current contract expires at 12:01 a.m. on October 16, 2011.
“Today’s strike vote shows we’re determined to keep our city a place that working families can afford to call home,” said Wayne MacManiman, Mid-Atlantic Director for 32BJ. “Our members are determined to protect their good jobs, which are critical to their families, their communities, and to the thousands of tenants who depend on these workers’ services.”
Negotiations began on September 8th between 32BJ, the city’s largest private-sector union, and leaders of Building Operators Labor Relations, Inc. (BOLR), an organization representing Philadelphia’s major commercial office building owners, managers, and cleaning companies.
“The real estate industry in Philadelphia surely has the money to keep the benefits that keep our children healthy,” said Angel Castro, a cleaner in Center City who has three children. “I’ve got two kids in college, a mortgage to pay, groceries to buy. I’m struggling like many people these days.”
Philadelphia and the Washington, D.C. area are the first of several cities where contract negotiations will occur this fall. Altogether, 60,000 commercial members from Northern Virginia to Connecticut and Philadelphia to Pittsburgh are united in a campaign to secure new contracts that protect good jobs.
“Our city, our state, and our country need for working people to get the fair pay and decent benefits they deserve,” Congressman Bob Brady (D-Pa.) said. “A win for commercial office cleaners in this contract fight will be a win for all of us.”
“At a time when American workers are under attack, 32BJ members are standing together for the good jobs our communities and our country needs,” said Mike Fishman, President of 32BJ, the nation’s largest union of property service workers. “Not just here in Philadelphia, but in twenty two cities across the country today.”
“The 2,600 property service workers here in Philadelphia who are bargaining to keep good jobs alive are not in this fight alone,” said SEIU International President Mary Kay Henry. “Across the country, more than 150,000 janitors over the next year will be sitting across the table from their employer—bargaining contracts to defend good jobs and rebuild the middle class.”
With more than 120,000 members in eight states, including 7,000 in Philadelphia, 32BJ is the largest property services union in the country.
###
Rally today in Philadelphia! We are demonstrating for the good jobs we need to support our families, and which our nation needs to regain its footing after the worst economic crisis to hit in a generation. We are all standing together on the same day in this fight for good jobs because the contracts for some 150,000 building service workers, including 60,000 in 32BJ Districts, will soon be expiring from coast to coast.
UPDATE 10/04/2011: Video
UPDATE, 11:21 AM 9/28/2011:
Incoming photos on Flickr: Philadelphia Commercial Contract Rally 09.28.2011
To add your photos, email us: photos@seiu32bj.org!
Here are what some people are saying on Twitter:
@seiu: RT @elizaj: Goodbye, Philly! Awesome rally with @32BJ_SEIU members! One union! PHOTOS posted: http://t.co/r4Cv8xnU
@green4philly: At the SEIU 32BJ rally in Dilworth Plaza. http://t.co/BWBaotzB
@tanyalias: We got thousands in the street – hey corporations do your part! #j4j http://t.co/Deg1n0zD
You can follow rallies in Philly and 22 other cities on twitter: Search for #j4j (Justice 4 Janitors) on Twitter
Update, 5:49 PM: Press Coverage is starting to roll in –
SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
MEDIA ADVISORY
FOR 12 p.m., Wednesday, September 28, 2011
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Eugenio H. Villasante 212 539 2940, 646 285 1087
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
Maia Davis 201-396-4444
- Strike vote by Philadelphia members to follow rally with Rep. Brady -
Philadelphia, PA – Thousands of property service workers from Philadelphia, New York, New Jersey, the Washington, D.C. region, Connecticut and Allegheny County will march and rally downtown on Wednesday to call for a fair contract. Among them will be some of the 2,600 building cleaners in Philadelphia fighting for a new contract with a fair wage increase, employer-paid family health care and retirement security. Contract negotiations are also underway for more than 12,000 commercial cleaners in the Wash., D.C. region and for 2,100 in Allegheny County. These negotiations mark the first round of a multistate campaign by 60,000 cleaners for new contracts that maintain and raise wage and benefit standards. Altogether, across the country, more than 150,000 property service workers in the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) are fighting for a fair contract from now through 2012. Following the rally, the Philadelphia-area cleaners will vote on whether to grant their bargaining committee the power to call a strike if necessary.
WHAT: March, rally and strike vote
WHO: Thousands of commercial office cleaners from Philadelphia, N.Y., N.J., Conn. Wash., D.C., Md., Del. Va., and Allegheny Co., Pa.
Congressman Bob Brady (D-Philadelphia)
SEIU International President Mary Kay Henry
City Council members
Philadelphia labor leaders and other community supporters
*Interviews can be arranged prior to rally with SEIU International President Mary Kay Henry
WHEN: Wednesday, September 28, 2011
March at 12 PM
Rally and strike vote at 1 PM
WHERE: Dilworth Plaza, City Hall
15th & JFK
Rallies and marches will also be held in 21 other cities across the country, with property service workers and their supporters calling for the good jobs that build strong communities.
With more than 120,000 members in eight states, including 7,000 in Philadelphia, Local 32BJ is the largest property services union in the country.
# #
UPDATE, 5:55 PM 9/28/2011:
More photos, press, and social media coverage of the rallies.
UPDATE, 11:21 AM 9/28/2011:
Incoming photos on Flickr: GOOD JOBS RALLY IN PHILLY To add your photos, email us: photos@seiu32bj.org!
On September 28 in Philadelphia — and in As we go to the negotiating table to fight for good jobs, we do so knowing that this fight is part of a larger campaign for the good jobs across our country needs.
|
Los Angeles Orange County/Irvine Sacramento San Diego/La Jolla San Francisco San Jose Denver Chicago Indianapolis Boston Detroit Milwaukee Kansas City St Louis Cincinnati Cleveland Columbus Toledo Portland Philadelphia Providence Houston Seattle |
Update, 9/27/2011: 22 cities!
32BJ has begun important negotiations for new contracts for our members in three districts: the Capital Area District, the Mid-Atlantic District and Western PA.
“A good, fair contract will provide working families with what they need, our economy with a boost and local governments with more tax revenue,” said Mike Fishman, 32BJ President. “Our campaign for good jobs is part of a national effort to rebuild the middle class, restore the economy, and reclaim the American Dream for millions of families.”
Here’s what our members are saying about the contract negotiations:
| “Our workload is growing, but not our wages.” - Oscar Washington, DC |
“I’ve got two kids in college, a mortgage to pay and groceries, I’m struggling like many people here every day.” - Angel Philadephia, PA |
“When companies pay better, people stay and do a better job. Everybody wins.” - Robert Pittsburgh, PA |
32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
Matt Nerzig: 917 584-0787
CONTRACT TALKS OPEN FOR MORE THAN 2,600 PHILADELPHIA PROPERTY SERVICE WORKERS
Union Proposals Focus on Fair Wage Increases as Office Market Strengthens
Philadelphia, PA – Negotiations for a new union contract covering more than 2,600 property service workers in Philadelphia began on Friday between 32BJ and representatives of the real estate industry. 32BJ presented its contract proposals to leaders of Building Owners Labor Relations, Inc. (BOLR), an organization representing Philadelphia’s major commercial office building owners, managers, and cleaning companies such as ABM Industries, Inc., The Arthur Jackson Company, and Shellville Facility Services.
“We offered realistic proposals to ensure hard-working men and women receive the wages critical to supporting their families and strengthening our economy,” said Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ Mid-Atlantic Director. “The city’s multi-billion dollar real estate industry can afford to give low-wage workers the raise they deserve, and ensure that tenants receive the professional service they want.”
Wages range from just over $12 per hour and up based on job duties. Workers receive paid holidays and after one year of service, paid vacation and personal days. The federal poverty line for a family of four in the United States is $22,350 annually.
The city’s downtown commercial office market is seeing stabilized rents and decreasing vacancies. Additionally, employment, rents, and construction are forecasted to increase.
“A good, fair contract will provide working families with what they need, our economy with a boost and local governments with more tax revenue,” said Mike Fishman, 32BJ President. “Our campaign for good jobs is part of a national effort to rebuild the middle class, restore the economy, and reclaim the American Dream for millions of families.”
More than 60,000 property service workers from Hartford, Conn., to Virginia are united in a campaign to secure new contracts that raise wage and benefit standards.
“I’ve got two kids in college, a mortgage to pay and groceries,” said Angel Castro, a cleaner and father of three working in Center City. “I’m struggling like many people here every day.”
With more than 120,000 members in nine states, including 7,000 in Philadelphia, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.
# # #
Contracts covering 2,400 office building cleaners in Philadelphia expire on October 15. We are united for good jobs that keep our communities strong and give our kids a future!
PHILADELPHIA STRIKE VOTE & RALLY
Wednesday, September 28
12 Noon
Meeting Place: 15th St. and JFK Blvd.
(Municipal Service Building Plaza)
Download Leaflet for Strike Vote and Rally, Philadelphia – PDF
Wilmington bus pick-up information
Time: 10:30 am
Location: 100 N. West Street, Wilmington, DE
Download Leaflet with Wilmington Bus Info – PDF
Philly suburbs bus pic k-up information
Time: 10:30 am
Location: St. Patrick’s Church, 714 Dekalb Street, Norristown, PA
Download Leaflet with Philly Suburbs Bus Info – PDF
32BJ members honor the legacy of the Justice for Janitors campaign annually on June 15th. We remember the incredible organizing efforts of those janitors and cleaners who decided to join together and take action to demand respect and a better life. This year we had events June 11-17 in Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C.
Press Coverage
Justice for Janitors in New York Metro:
Justice for Janitors in Connecticut:
Justice for Janitors in New Jersey:
Justice for Janitors in Washington, DC:
Justice for Janitors in Western Pennsylvania:
March for the Middle Class in New York City:
