Héctor Figueroa
Manhattan Office
25 West 18th Street
New York, NY 10011
CLIKE HERE FOR THE LATEST BARGAINING UPDATE
CONTRACT EXPIRES JANUARY 1, 2012 AT 12:01 AM
22,000 commercial building workers in New York are represented by 32BJ. The current contract between 32BJ and the Realty Advisory Board expires at 12:01 on January 1, 2012. With more than 120,000 members, including 70,000 in New York, 32BJ is the largest private sector union in New York State.
Commercial members voted to overwhelmingly ratify the new commercial contract with a record voter turnout. Click here for highlights of the new contract.
The four-year agreement with the Realty Advisory Board (RAB) provides a 5.6% wage increase over the life of the contract and bonuses totaling $1,100.00. The agreement also maintains fully employer-paid family health care coverage.
“This is a fair agreement with modest wage increases that will help the 22,000 building cleaners remain a part of the City’s middle class,” said Mike Fishman President of 32BJ SEIU. “This contract will help workers support their families, and contribute to the growth of the economy.”
New York City office building workers clean and maintain major buildings and locations including the Rockefeller Center, the MetLife Building, the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, Grand Central Station, Port Authority, and the Time Warner Center.
With more than 120,000 members, including 70,000 in New York, 32BJ is the largest property service workers union in the country and the largest private-sector union in the state.
A packet with a ballot and a copy of the tentative agreement was mailed to you yesterday. You should receive it within the next few days.
Mark your ballot. Place it in the return envelope. And mail it today. All ballots must be received by Monday, January 23rd at 5pm. Ballots will be counted on January 24.
Your vote is important. If you do not receive your ballot in the mail by Tuesday, January 17, come to the Member Walk-in Center on the 5th floor of 32BJ’s headquarters at 25 West 18 Street in Manhattan. Please call 212-388-3800 if you have questions.
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||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Employer Hourly Costs for Our Wages and Benefits | ||||
| JAN 2012 | JAN 2013 | JAN 2014 | JAN 2015 | |
| Hourly Pay Rate for Cleaners, Porters & Others |
$22.65 | $22.97 | $23.42 | $23.92 |
| Health care | 6.46 | 6.74 | 7.11 | 7.49 |
| Pension | 2.17 | 2.27 | 2.37 | 2.47 |
| 401(K), Legal, Training | .51 | .51 | .43 | .51 |
| TOTAL per hour (at year end)* | $31.79 | $32.49 | $33.33 | $34.39 |
| TOTAL per year (at year end)* | $71,180 | $72,709 | $74,577 | $76,874 |
*Includes cost of paid time off, including vacation & holidays
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, December 30, 2011
NEW YEAR’S STRIKE AVERTED; NYC OFFICE CLEANERS REACH NEW CONTRACT PROTECTING MORE THAN 22,000 GOOD JOBS
– New 4-Year Contract Provides Raises and Maintains Healthcare and Other Key Benefits –
New York, NY — The 32BJ Bargaining Committee tonight announced a tentative agreement with the Realty Advisory Board (RAB) on a four-year contract covering more than 22,000 New York City office cleaners that provides a nearly 5.6% wage increase over the life of the contract and bonuses totaling $1,100.00. The agreement, which must still be ratified, maintains fully employer-paid family health care coverage.
“The new contract is not just an important victory for office cleaners and their families, but for our economy and our city,” said Hector Figueroa, Secretary-Treasurer of 32BJ. “In these tough times the workers who keep New York City’s corporate offices and landmark buildings clean and well maintained have stood up for the good middle class jobs our economy and our city needs.”
New York City office building workers clean and maintain major buildings and locations including the Rockefeller Center, the MetLife Building, the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, Grand Central Station, Port Authority, and the Time Warner Center.
“I am happy with this agreement,” said Ivan Almendarez who is a cleaner at New York University. “Keeping my healthcare and getting wage increases will go a long way toward helping me raise my kids and take care of my ailing wife.”
In the last three months, 32BJ has reached new, multiyear contracts for more than 50,000 workers from Hartford, CT to Northern Virginia in a regionwide campaign to promote good jobs and stronger communities.
“Good jobs are essential to rebuilding the middle class and strengthening our economic recovery,” said President Fishman. “From the outset, this regionwide contract campaign has been part of a nationwide effort to protect the good jobs working people need to support their families and our cities’ need to get back on track.”
The agreement also calls for the establishment of a joint 32BJ-real estate industry project to promote economic development and good jobs. The project, which will be guided by directors from both 32BJ and the real estate industry, will explore ways for the union and the industry to work together to advance robust and responsible development in New York City.
With more than 120,000 members, including 70,000 in New York, 32BJ is the largest property service workers union in the country and the largest private-sector union in the state. For more information, visit www.StandWithBuildingWorkers.org
###
Photo Slideshow – Solidarity Actions Yesterday 12/29
Also lovely “thank you” videos to our friends at other SEIU Local Unions. We’ll be there for you!
New York office cleaners are fighting for good jobs – jobs that provide a decent wage, health care and retirement security, jobs that give working families the opportunity for a brighter future. 32BJ members are among New York’s working families already struggling to get by. We can’t accept cuts to our pay and benefits that would make it that much harder to support our families.
Pledge your support to the office cleaners fighting for good jobs!
Only 1 day remains before the expiration of the contract covering thousands of office cleaners in 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 tentative agreements for office cleaners in Hartford & New Haven, Conn.; New Jersey; Delaware; and Fairfield County, Conn. & Hudson Valley Office Cleaners.
What can you do?
Listen to the Radio Ad by 32BJ Warning of a Possible Strike by NYC Office Cleaners:
Look for the 32BJ box at any of the locations below.
22,000 New York office cleaners are in the last days of negotiations. And it’s not looking good. Employers are still insisting on major cuts to pay and benefits.
32BJ members are among New York’s working families already struggling to get by. We just can’t accept cuts that would make it that much harder to support our families.
PLEASE DONATE NON-PERISHABLE FOOD TO 32BJ OFFICE CLEANERS AS WE PREPARE FOR A STRIKE.
Look for the 32BJ box at these locations:
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Call 212-388-3863 if your organization can volunteer to be a collection site. If we reach a fair agreement with employers in time to avert a strike, we’ll donate everything to a local food pantry.
310 West 43rd Street (at 8th Avenue)
New York, NY
360 E 57th Street Mezzanine
New York, NY
230 West 72nd Street, 2F
New York, NY
2175C Jerome Ave.
Bronx, NY
563 Columbus Ave (at 87th St)
New York, NY
11AM-1PM and 4-6PM
330 East 63rd St, Suite 1K (between 1st & 2nd Avenues)
New York, NY
1651 3rd Ave, Suite 311 (at 93rd Street)
New York, NY
11AM-1PM and 4-6PM
890 Flatbush Ave
Brooklyn, NY
817 Broadway, 6th Floor
New York, NY
928 Intervale Avenue
Bronx, NY
1512 Townsend Avenue
Bronx, NY
25 West 18th Street (between 5th and 6th Avenues)
New York NY
33-50 82nd Street
Jackson Heights, NY
180 Livingston Street, Room 4017
Fourth Floor
Brooklyn, NY
(Extension 8062 to get on 4th floor)
1700 Broadway
New York, NY
Service Employees International Union
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Thursday, December 29, 2011
CONTACT: Renee Asher, 202-355-8318
As Jan. 1 Strike Deadline Looms…
Janitors in More Than 12 Cities Across the Country Pledge Support to NYC Cleaners
NEW YORK, NY— As a contract deadline looms in New York City for 22,000 office cleaners represented by SEIU 32BJ, janitors in more than12 cities across the country including Chicago, Philadelphia, Boston and Los Angles have pledged to honor picket lines should the strike spread outside of New York City.
Cleaners in New York City represented by SEIU32BJ could strike as soon as January 1st if a deal is not reached with New York City’s $20 billion real estate industry.
The showdown comes in the midst of wide-scale public protests over income inequality between the very wealthy and the rest of the country and a debate about what kind of country we will become if income disparity continues to widen. While corporate executives are making record amounts, income for 95 percent of American households has either stayed the same or fallen since 1970, threatening to make the middle class the great disappearing act of the 21st century.
Janitors in Northern Virginia, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Chicago, Orange County, Los Angeles, Oakland, San Diego, Boston, Seattle, Minneapolis and Sacramento have all signed petitions stating their intention to honor picket lines should the strike spread to their buildings.
###
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Ginger Otis: 212-604-9552/ 917-346-3391
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Thursday, December 29, 2011
NEW YORK LABOR LEADERS OFFER STRIKE SUPPORT FOR 32BJ
-Unions stand together to fight for a fair contract-
When: Thursday, December 29, @ 11 a.m.
Where: Steps of City Hall
Who: State and City union leaders from all sectors
Only two days remain before the contract covering 22,000 building service workers in New York City expires. If the clock runs out at midnight on Dec. 31, 2011 without a fair and equitable deal in place for hardworking 32BJ members, New York’s labor community is prepared to back them in a strike.
“The resources of the 2 ½ million member New York State AFL-CIO are at the full disposal of 32 BJ for as long as it takes to reach a contract agreement. With 3,000 local union affiliates across the state, we will stand side by side with our 32 BJ brothers and sisters throughout these negotiations. This is not just about what happens in the next few days. These negotiations are about the future of our city, and what kind of city we want to leave to the next generation,” says Mario Cilento, President of NY State AFL-CIO.
The top rate of a commercial cleaner in NYC is $22.65 an hour, or $47,000 a year, but building owners still say workers are earning too much. The real estate industry wants to rollback salary and benefit packages, while it’s recorded billions in sales activity this year alone.
“Whether it’s for a private sector union like 32 BJ, or a public sector or building trades union, the New York City Central Labor Council is always going to stand up for fair wages and contracts,” says Vincent Alvarez, President of the NYC CLC. “The labor community is committed to working together to fight for fairness in the workplace and protecting the wages and benefits of the hardworking men and women of New York City.”
####
The NYC Central Labor Council is a non-profit representing 1.3 million unionized workers citywide.
-Unions stand together to fight for a fair contract-
When: Thursday, December 29, @ 11 a.m.
Where: Steps of City Hall
Who: State and City union leaders from all sectors
Only two days remain before the contract covering 22,000 building service workers in New York City expires. If the clock runs out at midnight on Dec. 31, 2011 without a fair and equitable deal in place for hardworking 32BJ members, New York’s labor community is prepared to back them in a strike.
“The resources of the 2 ½ million member New York State AFL-CIO are at the full disposal of 32 BJ for as long as it takes to reach a contract agreement. With 3,000 local union affiliates across the state, we will stand side by side with our 32 BJ brothers and sisters throughout these negotiations. This is not just about what happens in the next few days. These negotiations are about the future of our city, and what kind of city we want to leave to the next generation,” says Mario Cilento, President of NY State AFL-CIO.
The top rate of a commercial cleaner in NYC is $22.65 an hour, or $47,000 a year, but building owners still say workers are earning too much. The real estate industry wants to rollback salary and benefit packages, while it’s recorded billions in sales activity this year alone.
“Whether it’s for a private sector union like 32 BJ, or a public sector or building trades union, the New York City Central Labor Council is always going to stand up for fair wages and contracts,” says Vincent Alvarez, President of the NYC CLC. “The labor community is committed to working together to fight for fairness in the workplace and protecting the wages and benefits of the hardworking men and women of New York City.”
####
The NYC Central Labor Council is a non-profit representing 1.3 million unionized workers citywide.
NEW YORK, NY— As a contract deadline looms in New York City for 22,000 office cleaners represented by SEIU 32BJ, janitors in more than 12 cities across the country including Chicago, Philadelphia, Boston and Los Angles have pledged to honor picket lines should the strike spread outside of New York City.
Cleaners in New York City represented by SEIU32BJ could strike as soon as January 1st if a deal is not reached with New York City’s $20 billion real estate industry.
The showdown comes in the midst of wide-scale public protests over income inequality between the very wealthy and the rest of the country and a debate about what kind of country we will become if income disparity continues to widen. While corporate executives are making record amounts, income for 95 percent of American households has either stayed the same or fallen since 1970, threatening to make the middle class the great disappearing act of the 21st century.
Janitors in Northern Virginia, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Chicago, Orange County, Los Angeles, Oakland, San Diego, Boston, Seattle, Minneapolis and Sacramento have all signed petitions stating their intention to honor picket lines should the strike spread to their buildings.
###
 |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Renee Asher, 202-355-8318 December 29, 2011
As Jan. 1 Strike Deadline Looms…
Janitors in More Than 12 Cities Across the Country Pledge Support to NYC Cleaners
NEW YORK, NY— As a contract deadline looms in New York City for 22,000 office cleaners represented by SEIU 32BJ, janitors in more than 12 cities across the country including Chicago, Philadelphia, Boston and Los Angles have pledged to honor picket lines should the strike spread outside of New York City.
Cleaners in New York City represented by SEIU32BJ could strike as soon as January 1st if a deal is not reached with New York City’s $20 billion real estate industry.
The showdown comes in the midst of wide-scale public protests over income inequality between the very wealthy and the rest of the country and a debate about what kind of country we will become if income disparity continues to widen. While corporate executives are making record amounts, income for 95 percent of American households has either stayed the same or fallen since 1970, threatening to make the middle class the great disappearing act of the 21st century.
Janitors in Northern Virginia, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Chicago, Orange County, Los Angeles, Oakland, San Diego, Boston, Seattle, Minneapolis and Sacramento have all signed petitions stating their intention to honor picket lines should the strike spread to their buildings.
###
32BJ of the Service Employees International Union
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Kwame Patterson, 312-371-2485
Matt Nerzig, 917-584-0787
MEDIA ADVISORY
FOR 3:00 PM, Thursday, December 29th, 2011
AS STRIKE LOOMS, OFFICE CLEANERS TAKE TO THE STREETS
–1,000 Workers at 3 Major Landmarks Across Manhattan–
New York, NY–With office cleaners stepping up preparations for a possible strike, cleaners will gather near Bowling Green Park and march past their worksites in downtown Manhattan’s Financial District. Hundreds of other office building workers will also be on the streets at several Midtown locations including Grand Central Station and the Grace Building.
Failure to reach a new contract by the time the ball drops in Times Square on New Year’s Eve, could lead to a strike of more than 22,000 office cleaners at more than 1,500 buildings, including landmarks such as Rockefeller Center, the Chrysler Building, the Met Life building and the Empire State Building.
Negotiations between the Realty Advisory Board (RAB) an association representing most major building owners in the city and 32BJ SEIU began on November 15th.
WHAT: Workers Ramp Up for Citywide Strike
WHO: 1,000 NYC Office Cleaners
WHEN: Thursday, December, 29, 2011 at 3:00PM
WHERE:
*Wall Street (Across from Bowling Green Park) 500 workers
Grand Central Station (Outside 300 Madison Ave.) 300 workers
Grace Building (Across from Bryant Park) 250 workers
With more than 120,000 members, including 70,000 in New York, 32BJ is the largest private-sector union in the state. For more information, visit www.standwithbuildingworkers.org
###
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Ginger Otis:
212-604-9552/
917-346-3391
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Thursday, December 29, 2011
NEW YORK LABOR LEADERS OFFER STRIKE SUPPORT FOR 32BJ
-Unions stand together to fight for a fair contract-
When: Thursday, December 29, @ 11 a.m.
Where: Steps of City Hall
Who: State and City union leaders from all sectors
Only two days remain before the contract covering 22,000 building service workers in New York City expires. If the clock runs out at midnight on Dec. 31, 2011 without a fair and equitable deal in place for hardworking 32BJ members, New York’s labor community is prepared to back them in a strike.
“The resources of the 2 ½ million member New York State AFL-CIO are at the full disposal of 32 BJ for as long as it takes to reach a contract agreement. With 3,000 local union affiliates across the state, we will stand side by side with our 32 BJ brothers and sisters throughout these negotiations. This is not just about what happens in the next few days. These negotiations are about the future of our city, and what kind of city we want to leave to the next generation,” says Mario Cilento, President of NY State AFL-CIO.
The top salary of a commercial cleaner in NYC is $22.65 an hour, or $47,000 a year but building owners still say workers are earning too much. The real estate industry wants to rollback salary and benefit packages, while it’s recorded billions in sales activity this year alone.
“Whether it’s for a private sector union like 32BJ, or a public sector or building trades union, the New York City Central Labor Council is always going to stand up for fair wages and contracts,” says Vincent Alvarez, President of the CLC. “The labor community is committed to working together to fight for fairness in the workplace and protecting the wages and benefits of the hardworking men and women of New York City.”
###
Only 2 days remain before the expiration of the contract covering thousands of office cleaners in 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 tentative agreements for office cleaners in Hartford & New Haven, Conn.; New Jersey; Delaware; and Fairfield County, Conn. & Hudson Valley Office Cleaners.
What can you do?
32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Julie Karant: 646-584-9001
Eugenio H. Villasante: 646-285-1087
MEDIA ADVISORY FOR:
For 2:30 PM, Thursday, December 29, 2011
OFFICE CLEANERS WILL TAKE TO THE STREETS, HONOR PICKET LINES IF NYC CLEANERS STRIKE
Work Stoppages Could Impact Bank of New York Mellon and USX Tower
Pittsburgh, PA –Nearly 100 office cleaners, Occupy Pittsburgh activists and supporters will take to the streets on Thursday in solidarity with the 22,000 New York City cleaners who are on the verge of one of the largest private-sector strikes in recent history. Although Allegheny County commercial office cleaners ratified new four-year contracts covering 1,200 workers in October, Pittsburgh cleaners employed by New York-based contractors who are members of 32BJ SEIU could participate in work stoppages if cleaners in NYC don’t reach a fair agreement by 12:01 AM on January 1, 2012.
WHO: Office cleaners, Occupy Pittsburgh & members of 32BJ SEIU
WHERE: One Mellon Center – BNY Mellon Center
500 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA
WHEN: Thursday, December 29, 2011 – 2:30 PM
In the event of a NYC strike, hundreds of Pittsburgh cleaners are prepared to honor picket lines at landmark buildings including the Bank of New York Mellon, the USX Tower, the PNC Bank Buildings, Highmark and Liberty Center among others.
Cleaners in more than 12 cities across the country including Chicago, Philadelphia, Boston and Los Angles have also pledged to honor picket lines should the strike spread outside of New York City.
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, including 5,000 in Western Pennsylvania, 32BJ is the largest property services union in the country.
###
Only 3 days remain before the expiration of the contract covering thousands of office cleaners in Hartford & New Haven, Conn., as well as 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 New Jersey, Delaware Office Cleaners and Fairfield County, Conn. & Hudson Valley Office Cleaners.
What can you do?
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact for 32BJ
Kwame Patterson 312-371-2485
Matt Nerzig 917-584-0787
Contact for Rev. Sharpton
Rachel Noerdlinger 646-981-5903
32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
MEDIA ADVISORY FOR
December 28, 2011 at 3:00PM
REVEREND AL SHARPTON TO RALLY FOR GOOD JOBS WITH NYC BUILDING WORKERS
–Talks Move into Sheraton Hotel as Deadline Nears—
New York, NY — Rev. Al Sharpton will rally with hundreds of New York City office cleaners Wednesday as 32BJ SEIU and the Realty Advisory Board (RAB) move into the Sheraton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan for round-the-clock negotiations.
Failure to reach a new contract by the time the ball drops in Times Square on New Year’s Eve, could lead to a strike of more than 22,000 commercial property service workers at more than 1,500 buildings, including landmarks such as Rockefeller Center, the Chrysler Building, the Met Life building and the Empire State Building.
WHAT: Rally for Good Jobs & Economic Fairness
WHO: Rev. Al Sharpton
Hundreds of NYC Office Cleaners
Mike Fishman, President of 32BJ
Union and Community supporters
WHEN: Wednesday, December, 28, 2011 at 3:00PM
WHERE: In front of the Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers, 2nd Floor
811 7th Avenue on 53rd Street, New York, NY 10019
With more than 120,000 members, including 70,000 in New York, 32BJ is the largest private-sector union in the state. For more information, visit www.standwithbuildingworkers.org .
###
Only 4 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 5 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 6 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 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?
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 21, 2011
CONTACT: Mary Tek, Coordinator
212-341-9509 / nyccprogresscaucus@gmail.com
Progressive Caucus Calls for a Fair Contract for SEIU 32BJ Workers
NEW YORK, NY — With only ten days left until the contract covering more than 22,000 NYC commercial office building cleaners is set to expire, the Progressive Caucus of the New York City Council stood in support of SEIU 32BJ workers, calling for fair wage increases and a deal that respect workers and avoids poverty-level creation. Negotiations began on November 15th between 32BJ, the city’s largest private-sector union and the Realty Advisory Board (RAB), an multi-employer association representing the city’s commercial building owners, managers, and cleaning contractors.
The proposals made by the city’s major building owners attempt to roll back wage and benefit standards that working men and women depend on to support their families. In particular, their proposals establish a two-tier structure, aimed at creating a second class of workers who are paid less and get lesser benefits, while placing restrictions on the political action of union members.
The top rate for commercial office cleaners represented by 32BJ is $22.65 an hour or $47,000 annually for a full-time 40-hour worker, significantly less than the household income that independent researchers have shown is necessary to support a family of four. Indeed, raising a family in New York City on $47,000 a year is nearly impossible, yet the billion dollar real estate industry says that’s too much money.
Meanwhile, the $20 billion Manhattan commercial real estate industry has experienced its busiest third quarter in three years — with sales activity reaching $6.3 billion, according to Crain’s New York. That puts 2011 on track to be the third highest total sales year on record, surpassed only by the boom years of 2006 and 2007.
As a result of the industry’s proposals, 32BJ office cleaners and commercial building workers voted on December 1st to authorize their bargaining committee to call a strike if necessary. Failure to reach a new contract by 12:01 a.m. on January 1, 2012 could lead to a strike of more than 22,000 office cleaners at over 1,500 commercial office buildings citywide.
The Progressive Caucus stands with the workers of 32BJ:
“New York is home to some of the world’s most successful businesses and most sought-after properties,” said Progressive Caucus Co-Chair Council Member Brad Lander. “The blue collar workers who take care of those buildings and help make those businesses possible deserve to be fairly compensated. Give them a fair contract that creates good jobs, protects workers benefits and security, and shrinks inequality in New York.”
“At a time when the cost of living in New York City continues to skyrocket, we must not allow our building service workers to lose ground in their contract negotiations,” said Progressive Caucus Co-Chair Council Member Melissa Mark-Viverito. “The commercial realty industry continues to turn huge profits, while workers earn wages that cannot even sustain a family of four. I join with my Progressive Caucus colleagues in demanding that the Realty Advisory Board come to the table in good faith to negotiate with 32BJ.”
“2011 has been a year of record sales for commercial real estate owners in New York City and I find it unconscionable that ultra-wealthy owners refuse to negotiate a fair wage with their union employees,” said Council Member Stephen Levin. “Fortunately, SEIU 32BJ is fighting for fair wages and benefits so that workers in our city can live here and raise families here. I am proud to stand with my colleagues from the Progressive Caucus and very proud stand with SEIU 32BJ. Let’s get this contract done so that everyone has a very Happy New Year.”
“As the son of parents with union jobs, I understand the importance of fair wages with good benefits for hard working New Yorkers,” said Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer. “ I support SEIU 32BJ in their contract negotiations, as they fight for fair and equitable employment. I stand firmly with my colleagues in the Progress Caucus to support the union in their just cause.”
“It is time for New York City’s real estate industry to treat over 22,000 hard-working building cleaners with some dignity and respect and pay them livable wages,” said Council Member Daniel Dromm. ”We cannot allow these building owners to continue to make record profits while our working families bear the brunt of this economic crisis and flirt with poverty levels. That is simply indefensible. I am proud to stand in solidarity with our 32BJ members in their fight for family sustaining wages and the opportunity to earn an honorable living.”
“The hard working men and women who keep our City’s buildings clean deserve nothing less than a fair contract that ensures their ability to make a livable wage and provide for their families,” said Council Member Julissa Ferreras. “They work hard to ensure our offices are clean and presentable. They ensure that the doors remain open for business. Instead the doors are being slammed in their faces, denying them the opportunity to better their lives and that of their families. Rolling back the wage and benefit standards that these workers have worked so hard for is unacceptable. To do so is nothing more than an attack on families – not just in New York City, but across the country. That is why I proudly stand with the members of 32BJ, to protect them from the assault on families.
“Rolling back wage and benefits standards for hard-working New Yorkers and their families in this economic climate is simply unimaginable,” said Council Member Jumaane Williams. “Even worse, these attempts coincide with the commercial real estate industry staying on track for its third highest total-sales year on record. In other words, the Realty Advisory Board is attempting to deepen this city’s income inequality gap into a canyon. That is simply unacceptable, and 32BJ has every right to keep a strike on the negotiating table.”
“I fully support 32BJ as they move forward in discussions to preserve fair and equal wages for 22,000 commercial office building cleaners in New York City,” said Council Member Letitia James. “The City’s major building owners want to leave these workers with an income that is far from functional for the average City family, while simultaneously creating a two-tier income bracket and disrupting union activity. In a time when commercial real estate is doing well city-wide, it is not fair to underpay commercial office cleaners.”
##
–
Progressive Caucus Coordinator
Stay in touch with the Progressive Caucus:
facebook.com/nycprogressives
www.nycprogressives.com
The New York City Council Progressive Caucus is dedicated to creating a more just and equal New York City, combating all forms of discrimination, and advancing public policies that offer genuine opportunity to all New Yorkers, especially those who have been left out of our society’s prosperity.
Members of the Progressive Caucus are: co-chairs Brad Lander (D-Brooklyn) and Melissa Mark-Viverito (D-Manhattan/Bronx); Annabel Palma, from the Bronx; Letitia James, Jumaane D. Williams and Stephen Levin from Brooklyn; Margaret Chin from Manhattan; Daniel Dromm, Julissa Ferreras, James Sanders Jr. and Jimmy Van Bramer, from Queens; and Deborah Rose, from Staten Island.
♫
All I want for Christmas
is a fair contract,
a fair contract,
a fair contract!
♪
Then one foggy New Year’s Eve
The cleaners came to say,
“The tycoons wallets all are fat,
they can afford a fair contract!”
♫
Pledge Your Support for NYC Office Cleaners
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.
Only 11 days remain before the expiration of the contract covering thousands of office cleaners in New York City, Hudson Valley, Connecticut, New Jersey, and Delaware.
Check out these lovely holiday cards that NYC office cleaners are sending out this year!
This holiday season, NYC office cleaners are spreading some cheer along with a very serious message: The contract covering 22,000 office cleaners expires on New Year’s Eve. There’s a lot at stake and we need your support!
Pledge Your Support for NYC Office Cleaners
Check out the highlights from the big events this week! Thousands of 32BJ members joined together to demonstrate our determination to fight for good jobs.
Pledge Your Support for Office Cleaners
Check out the photos from yesterday’s march and rally. We were all over the news last night, and we sent the strong message that we will not let employers push back our pay, benefits and rights on the job!
Pledge Your Support for NYC Office Cleaners
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Kwame Patterson, 312-371-2485
Matt Nerzig, 917-584-0787
32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
THOUSANDS OF OFFICE CLEANERS MARCH FOR GOOD JOBS
–More than 22,000 Workers at 1,500 Office Buildings Could Strike When Contract Expires Dec. 31st—
–Major buildings include the Rockefeller Center, the Met Life Building, the Empire State Building and the Time-Warner Center —
New York, NY—Thousands of New York City office cleaners and other commercial building workers marched and rallied through the streets of Midtown Manhattan today during rush hour to demand a fair contract from the Realty Advisory Board, an industry association representing most building owners. With only two weeks left until a possible citywide strike, 32BJ SEIU and the RAB remain far apart on any new agreement.
“The workers who keep office buildings clean and running well should be able to make ends meet in our city,” said Mike Fishman, President of 32BJ. “This is about more than just getting a new contract for them; it’s about keeping our city a place that working families can afford to call home.”
The contract, which covers more than 22,000 office cleaners and building service workers, expires at 12:01 a.m., January 1. Contract talks between 32BJ and the RAB began on November 15th and resume tomorrow, Thursday, December 15th.
“The future of the middle class in our city depends on preserving good jobs and stopping the race to the bottom on wages and benefits,” said Public Advocate Bill de Blasio who attended the rally. “The 22,000 commercial office cleaners deserve a fair contract, not rollbacks that risk throwing them into economic insecurity. I urge the Realty Advisory Board to negotiate in good faith towards a contract that preserves this vital industry’s quality jobs.”
The union seeks to preserve good jobs with wages that keep pace with the cost of living, as well as maintain benefits such as affordable healthcare and sick days. The top rate for commercial office cleaners represented by 32BJ is $22.65 an hour or $47,000 annually, significantly less than the household income that independent researchers have shown is necessary to support a family of four in New York City.
In response, the RAB wants to establish a two-tier wage and benefit structure for new hires, aimed at creating a lower-paid second class of workers, as well as other measures that would make it harder for current and new workers to make ends meet in New York City.
Meanwhile, the $20 billion Manhattan commercial real estate industry has just experienced its busiest third quarter in three years — with sales activity reaching $6.3 billion, according to Crain’s. That puts 2011 on track to be the third highest total-sales year on record, surpassed only by the boom years of 2006 and 2007. In addition, there have been six straight quarters of rental gains with top quality buildings up 10.7 percent in the past 12 months, according to CoStar.
On December 1st, thousands of New York City office cleaners and commercial building workers voted to authorize their bargaining committee to call a strike if necessary. Failure to reach a new contract by 12:01 a.m. on January 1, 2012 could lead to a strike of more than 22,000 office cleaners at over 1,500 commercial office buildings citywide.
“Nobody wants a strike, but we’re ready to fight to get what we need for our families and for the families of all working people in New York,” said Anna Dziubek, a cleaner who works at an office building in downtown Manhattan.
With more than 120,000 members, 32BJ is the largest property service workers union in the country. For more information, visit www.standwithbuildingworkers.org.
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32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Kwame Patterson: 212-388-3676; 312-371-2485
Matt Nerzig: 212-539-2882; 917-584-0787
MEDIA ADVISORY
for Wednesday, December 14, 2011 at 3:00 PM
WITH LITTLE OVER 2 WEEKS UNTIL THEIR CONTRACT EXPIRES,THOUSANDS OF OFFICE CLEANERS TO MARCH ON 6TH AVE FOR GOOD JOBS
–More than 22,000 Workers at 1,500 Office Buildings Could Strike When Contract Expires Dec. 31st—
–Major buildings include the Rockefeller Center, the Met Life Building, the Empire State Building and the Time-Warner Center —
New York, NY— With only two weeks left until a possible citywide strike, thousands of New York City office cleaners and other commercial building workers will march and rally through the streets of Midtown Manhattan during rush hour to demand a fair contract from the Realty Advisory Board, an industry association representing most building owners.
The contract, which covers more than 22,000 office cleaners and building service workers, expires at 12:01 a.m., January 1.
WHAT: March & Rally for a New Contract for NYC Office Cleaners
WHERE: March Starts at 41st Street on 6th Avenue at 3:15 p.m.
March Culminates at 48th Street & 6th Ave for a 3:45 p.m. Rally
WHO: –Mike Fishman, 32BJ President
–Public Advocate Bill de Blasio (confirmed)
–City Council Speaker Chris Quinn (invited)
–Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer (invited)
–Other Elected Officials
–Up to 10,000 Workers, Union & Community Supporters
WHEN: –Wednesday, December 14, 2011, 3:00 p.m.
Notes:
2:45 p.m. Press Opportunity: Workers, union leaders and elected officials to assemble at 41st Street and 6th Ave.
3:15 p.m. March Begins: Moves from 41st Street and 6th Ave north to 48th Street, marching north on 6th Ave.
3:45 p.m. Rally Begins; Main stage 48th Street and 6th Avenue where union officers, elected officials and workers address the crowd from a main stage
NOTE: Press riser near the main staging area.
With more than 120,000 members, 32BJ is the largest property service workers union in the country. For more information, visit www.standwithbuildingworkers.org/press .
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Happy Holidays!
Check out these lovely holiday cards that NYC office cleaners are sending out this year!
This holiday season, NYC office cleaners are spreading some cheer along with a very serious message: The contract covering 22,000 office cleaners expires on New Year’s Eve. There’s a lot at stake and we need your support!
Pledge Your Support for NYC Office Cleaners
32BJ SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Kwame Patterson 312-371-2485
Matt Nerzig 212-539-2882
MEDIA ADVISORY for
Media Tele-Press Briefing
11:00 AM, Tuesday, December 13, 2011
ECONOMIST TO ASSESS HEALTH OF NEW YORK CITY’S
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY
–$20 billion commercial real estate industry is experiencing busiest third quarter in three years–
New York, NY- Real estate industry expert Hugh Kelly will present key economic and industry indicators showing the New York City’s commercial real estate industry to be one of the strongest in the country, if not the entire world, and is likely to remain strong over the next several years. The contract covering more than 22,000 commercial building office cleaners is set to expire at 12:01 am on January 1, 2012.
WHAT: Tele-Press Briefing on NYC’s Commercial Real Estate Market
WHO: Hugh F. Kelly, CRE Real Estate Economics
WHEN: 11:00 AM, Tuesday, December 13, 2011
WHERE: Dial-in number: (877) 842-5648
Passcode: 1562098
Failure to reach a new contract by 12:01 a.m. on January 1, 2012 could lead to a strike of more than 22,000 office cleaners at over 1,500 commercial office buildings citywide.
With more than 120,000 members, including 70,000 in New York, 32BJ is the largest private-sector union in the state. For more information, visit www.standwithbuildingworkers.org .
# # #
From the New York Daily News:
Ivan Almendarez, 36, who lives near Yankee Stadium and works in a New York University building, is the sole provider for a wife with cancer and three children.
But Almendarez – who saved an injured stranger and was injured while working as an office cleaner at the World Trade Center on 9/11 – vows he won’t back down.
“The workers, including me, are ready to walk out, even though I have medical bills to pay,” said the Nicaraguan immigrant.
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 |
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White Plains, NY Strike Vote & Rally Thur, Dec 15 |
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Stamford, CT Strike Vote & Rally Thur, Dec 15 |
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Hartford, CT Strike Vote & Rally Thur, Dec 15 |
| We are standing strong to defend the standards that our families and communities count on — and we’re taking our message to the street.
What: Rally for a Fair Contract
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32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Kwame Patterson 312-371-2485
Matt Nerzig 917-584-0787
32BJ of Service Employees International Union
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Thursday, December 1st, 2011
NYC OFFICE CLEANERS GIVE BARGAINING COMMITTEE AUTHORITY TO CALL A STRIKE
–Strike Could Directly Affect 1,500 Commercial Office Buildings including Rockefeller Center,
the Met Life Building, the Empire State Building and the Time-Warner Center —
New York, NY—Thousands of New York City office cleaners and commercial building workers voted Thursday to authorize their bargaining committee to call a strike if necessary. Failure to reach a new contract by 12:01 a.m. on January 1, 2012 could lead to a strike of more than 22,000 office cleaners at over 1,500 commercial office buildings citywide.
“The real estate industry’s demands to roll back the wage and benefit standards of lower middle class workers are unacceptable,” said Mike Fishman, President of 32BJ SEIU. “Today’s strike vote shows we are determined to keep our city a place that working families can afford to call home.”
The workers, who were joined at their meeting by Mary Kay Henry, President of the Service Employee International Union (SEIU), have been in contract talks with the Realty Advisory Board (RAB), an industry association representing most building owners, since November 15th.
“At a time when the commercial real estate industry is returning to form, the men and women who keep office buildings clean should get what they need to support their families in the most expensive city in the country,” said SEIU President Mary Kay Henry. “Protecting good jobs will strengthen our struggling middle class and fuel the economy recovery we all need.”
The union strongly opposes an owner proposal to establish a two-tier wage and benefit structure for new hires, aimed at creating a lower second class of workers, as well as other measures that would make it harder for current and new workers to make ends meet in New York City.
“A two-tier wage system would be a giant leap backward for all workers because it drives down wages and benefits for years to come,” said Fishman. “The industry’s sole purpose in creating a second tier of workers is to replace the first tier with lower paid workers.”
The top rate for commercial office cleaners represented by 32BJ is $22.65 an hour or $47,000 annually, significantly less than the household income that independent researchers have shown is necessary to support a family of four.
“Forty seven thousand dollars a year is not a lot of money in New York City,” said Enma Mehmedovic, who cleans the Sony Building in Midtown Manhattan. “I’m raising my two teenage children by myself. It takes two pay checks just to be able to buy my kids’ clothes and shoes.”
“Rolling back wages and benefits of the workers in these jobs makes no sense,” said Fishman. “These workers live in the city with the highest cost of living in the country, and the real estate market here is the most profitable in the country. Their wages afford them only a lower middle class standard of living. Cutting wages and benefits would make it significantly harder for them to raise their families, and would hurt their communities and our city’s economy.”
Meanwhile, the $20 billion Manhattan commercial real estate industry has just experienced its busiest third quarter in three years — with sales activity reaching $6.3 billion, according to Crain’s. That puts 2011 on track to be the third highest total-sales year on record, surpassed only by the boom years of 2006 and 2007. In addition, there have been six straight quarters of rental gains with top quality buildings up 10.7 percent in the past 12 months, according to CoStar.
“Nobody wants a strike –least of all the men and women who keep New York City’s office buildings clean, but we must prepare for one if building owners insist on taking us down that path,” said Fishman.
With more than 120,000 members, including 70,000 in New York, 32BJ is the largest property service workers union in the country and the largest private-sector union in the state. For more information, visit www.standwithbuildingworkers.org .
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32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Kwame Patterson: 212-388-3676; 312-371-2485
Matt Nerzig: 212-539-2882
32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
MEDIA ADVISORY FOR:
Thursday, December 1, 2011 at 2PM
NEW YORK CITY OFFICE CLEANERS TO HOLD STRIKE VOTE
– Strike Could Directly Affect More Than 1,500 Office Buildings, including the Time-Warner Center,
Rockefeller Center, the Met Life Building and the Empire State Building—
New York, NY—Thousands of New York City commercial office cleaners will vote Thursday to authorize their bargaining committee to call a strike if necessary. Failure to reach a new contract by midnight, January 1, 2012, could prompt a strike of more than 22,000 apartment building workers at over 1,500 commercial office buildings throughout the city.
Thursday’s vote comes on the heels of the Realty Advisory Board’s (RAB), an industry association representing most of the City’s building owners, demand for workers to accept an aggressive rollback in wage and benefit standards. Contract negotiations between 32BJ SEIU and the RAB have been underway since November 15th.
WHAT: NYC Office Building Workers Strike Vote and March
WHO: –Thousands of New York City Office Cleaner
–Mike Fishman, President of 32BJ SEIU
–Mary Kay Henry, President of SEIU
WHEN: Thursday, December 1, 2011
2PM: Strike Vote: Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers 2nd Floor (7th Ave & 53rd Street)
4PM: March: from Herald Square to Union Square
NOTE:
The strike vote meeting is closed to the press, but interviews with union officers and members can be arranged onsite
With more than 120,000 members, including 70,000 in New York, 32BJ is the largest private-sector union in the state. For more information, visit www.standwithbuildingworkers.org .
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Contact: Matt Nerzig: 212-539-2882
RAB CONTRACT PROPOSALS AN AGGRESSIVE ATTEMPT TO
ROLLBACK WAGE AND BENEFIT STANDARDS FOR WORKING NEW YORKERS
The following statement is attributable to Mike Fishman, President of 32BJ SEIU:
“The contract proposals made today by the city’s major building owners on a new contract for 22,000 of the city’s commercial office cleaners are an aggressive attempt to rollback wage and benefit standards that working men and women depend on to support their families. In particular, proposals for establishing a two-tier staff structure, aimed at creating a lower second class of workers, and for placing restrictions on the political action of union members are unacceptable.”
“At a time when the $20 billion commercial real estate industry is returning to form, the men and women who keep office buildings clean should get the wages and benefits they need to support their families in the most expensive city in the country. Demanding cuts from a workforce that is barely making ends meet is wrong, economically unjustifiable and unacceptable.”
“In the best interests of the real estate industry, its tenants and workers, we call on the city’s major building owners to demonstrate responsible leadership by returning to the table with a fair contract proposal.”
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| SEND A MESSAGE TO EMPLOYERS: We cannot – we will not – let you push back our pay, benefits and rights on the job. Take a stand with New York’s working families, unions, community groups and others for an economy that works for everyone! | |
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32BJ NYC Commercial Cleaners
Sheraton Hotel (53rd St. & 7th Ave.) Download a postcard reminder to share with your coworkers |
All 32BJ Members
5th Avenue and 33rd Street Download a postcard reminder to share with your coworkers |
32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Matt Nerzig: 212-539-2882; 917-584-0787
Kwame Patterson: 312-371-2485
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTRACT TALKS OPEN FOR MORE THAN 22,000 NEW YORK CITY OFFICE CLEANERS
– Union Proposals Focus on Protecting Good Jobs to Strengthen the Economy –
We’re not asking to get rich, we just need fair wages and benefits to be able to survive in this city.
Emma Mehmedovic, midtown office cleaner
New York, NY— Negotiations for a new contract covering more than 22,000 commercial office building cleaners began today when 32BJ, the city’s largest private-sector union, presented its proposals to the Realty Advisory Board (RAB) — an association representing most of the city’s commercial building owners, managers, and cleaning contractors.
“Our proposals are aimed at preserving good jobs and maintaining the middle class that our city’s economy needs to grow,” said Mike Fishman, President of 32BJ. “When thousands of hardworking men and women win good jobs with decent wages and benefits, it’s a win for working families, our communities and the economy.”
Real Estate Industry on the Upswing
Contract talks open as the $22 billion Manhattan commercial real estate industry experiences its busiest third quarter in three years — with sales activity reaching $6.3 billion, according to Crain’s. That puts 2011 on track to be the third highest total-sales year on record, surpassed only by the boom years of 2006 and 2007. In addition, there have been six straight quarters of rental gains with top quality buildings up 10.7 percent in the past 12 months, according to CoStar.
Working Families Struggling to Make Ends Meet
The top rate for commercial office cleaners represented by 32BJ is $22.65 an hour or $47,000 annually, significantly less than the household income that independent researchers have shown is necessary to support a family of four.
“With the real estate industry back on track, there is no excuse to keep office cleaners from getting the wages they need to continue to make ends meet.” Fishman said.
Building Worker Strike Could Affect More than 1,500 Office Buildings
Failure to reach a new contract by December 31, 2011, could lead to a strike of more than 22,000 commercial property service workers at more than 1,500 buildings, including landmarks such as Rockefeller Center, the Met Life building and the Empire State Building.
“I have to support my wife and kids,” said Ivan Almendarez, a commercial office cleaner in downtown Manhattan. “I can’t afford to go backwards.”
With more than 120,000 members, including 70,000 in New York, 32BJ is the largest private-sector union in the state.
For more information, visit www.StandWithBuildingWorkers.org.
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32BJ of the Service Employees International Union
For Immediate Release:
October 12, 2011
For More Information:
Kwame Patterson: 312-371-2485
Matt Nerzig: 212-539-2882
HUNDREDS OF OFFICE CLEANERS RALLY ON WALL STREET FOR GOOD JOBS
New York, NY—To spotlight the need for good jobs and the growing wealth gap between the ultra rich and working people, hundreds of office cleaners, along with union supporters and groups such as Occupy Wall Street marched and rallied today to the New York Stock Exchange.
“Thousands of hardworking men and women are rallying all over the country to demand some of the same things as Occupy Wall Street,” said Kevin Doyle Executive Vice President of 32BJ SEIU. “Working people need good jobs that provide fair wages and secure benefits so they can raise their families, send their kids to college, retire with some security, and get our economy moving.”
The march and rally coincided with the expiration this fall of contracts for more than 60,000 office cleaners from Hartford to Virginia– including some 25,000 men and women in New York City, whose contract expires on December 31, 2011.
In Philadelphia, the 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 12:01 a.m. on October 16, 2011.
In the Washington, D.C. area, contracts covering 10,000 office building cleaners in Washington, D.C., Montgomery County, Northern Virginia and Baltimore expire at 12:01 a.m. on October 16, 2011.
“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,” Doyle said.
With more than 120,000 members, including 70,000 in New York, 32BJ is the largest private-sector union in the state.
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.
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.
32BJ of the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION
MEDIA ADVISORY FOR
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Kwame Patterson: 212-388-3676; 312-371-2485
Matt Nerzig: 212-539-2882
HUNDREDS OF OFFICE CLEANERS TO RALLY ON WALL STREET FOR GOOD JOBS
New York, NY— 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 to the New York Stock Exchange.
The event coincides with the expiration this fall of contracts for more than 60,000 office cleaners from Hartford to Washington, DC – including more than 20,000 men and women in New York City.
WHAT: March & Rally For Good Jobs
WHO: Public Advocate Bill de Blasio (invited)
Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer (invited)
Office Cleaners from Across New York City
Kevin Doyle, 32BJ Executive Vice President
Hector Figueroa, 32BJ Secretary Treasurer
Workers from art auctioneer Sotheby’s; Verizon CWA workers; UnitedNY
Occupy Wall Street protesters (invited)
WHEN: Wednesday, October 12, 2011 at 2pm
WHERE: Bowling Green to the New York Stock Exchange (Broad and Exchange)
March toward the New York Stock Exchange starts at 2:30pm from Bowling Green; Rally Starts at 3:00pm
With more than 120,000 members, including 70,000 in New York, 32BJ is the largest private-sector union in the state. For more information, visit www.standwithbuildingworkers.org .
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Updated with Rally Location, 10/11/2011 10: 18 AM
MARCH AND RALLYStand up for good jobs!2:00 PM Wed, Oct 12March from Bowling Green ParkMeet at Beaver and Whitehall Streets. Map: http://g.co/maps/jm6mq
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Rally Location: Broad & Exchange Place |
A message from Héctor Figueroa, 32BJ Secretary-Treasurer and New York Metro District Area Leader –
Across the country protests calling for a fair economy that works for everyone are growing. All around us, people share the same frustration and deep concern: The rich are getting richer while the rest of us struggle to find and keep good jobs. And the wealthiest Americans and most profitable corporations aren’t paying their fair share of taxes while funding for public schools, libraries, roads, firefighters and more is being slashed.
Our fight for a fair contract for New York’s office building cleaners is part of this larger effort to make America live up to its promise of fairness.
I hope you’ll join me and fellow 32BJ members on Wednesday, October 12 at 2pm in a march and rally for good jobs. Click here for details and to sign up.
This is an important moment in America as more and more people come together demanding good jobs and economic fairness.
Join me on Wednesday, October 12 at 2pm.
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:
MARCH & RALLY
Wednesday, OCTOBER 12
2 pm
Meeting Place: Bowling Green Park
(at Beaver and Whitehall Streets)
Take the #4 or #5 to Bowling Green;
the R or W to Whitehall; or the #1 to South Ferry
Stand up for good jobs!
Contracts covering 30,000 office building cleaners in New York City expire on December 31. We are united for good jobs that keep our communities strong and give our kids a future!
We’re part of 32BJ SEIU, the largest union of property service workers in the U.S. Altogether 60,000 office building cleaners – from Connecticut to Virginia – are in tough contract fights this fall. By standing together, we can withstand the pushback from employers and win fair contracts in every 32BJ district.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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 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:
Flier for Wednesday, December 14th Rally (12/14/2011) – English/Español
