Post-9/11 Security Measures Continue to Strive for Respect and Effectiveness.

In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, the contributions of security personnel and cleaners at the World Trade Center have come into renewed focus. More than 1,200 members of the 32BJ SEIU union worked at the site prior to that tragic day, fulfilling critical roles such as screening visitors, responding to medical emergencies, and collaborating with emergency services. Tragically, 24 union members lost their lives during the attacks, with approximately 2,000 others laid off across Lower Manhattan. Many remaining employees faced significant health challenges in the years that followed.

Among those who were employed at the World Trade Center before September 11, some individuals were fortunate to have avoided the tragedy. A number of union members either ended their shifts shortly before the attacks or were absent due to personal appointments. This exemplifies the precarious nature of workforce scheduling in the security industry.

In the wake of this national catastrophe, the strength of solidarity emerged as a vital element for recovery among union members. The 32BJ SEIU implemented various support mechanisms, including a clinic to assist with unemployment claims and workers’ compensation navigation. They established hardship funds and provided essential counseling services and legal assistance to members and their families pursuing claims through the Victims Compensation Fund. The union’s commitment extended to making personal notifications to the families of the co-workers who perished, showcasing their integral role during the crisis.

Despite some members regaining union representation soon after the tragedy, others continued to contend with low wages, some earning as little as .50 per hour. The events of 9/11 underscored the disparity between the crucial responsibilities held by security officers and the compensation they received. This sparked the launch of the Stand For Security campaign by 32BJ SEIU, aimed at advocating for better wages and improved conditions for thousands of security personnel citywide.

Significant progress has been made in recent years. Achievements include the establishment of free union healthcare, fair schedules, and paid time off for the approximately 20,000 security officers employed in New York City. A crucial recent initiative is the proposed Aland Etienne Safety and Security Act, set to increase the minimum wage for security officers beginning January 1, 2027.

Despite these advances, challenges persist in New York City’s private security sector. An estimated 81,000 security officers currently work throughout the city, yet a staggering 77% turnover rate and lack of employer-sponsored health insurance plague the workforce. These conditions are particularly concerning as approximately 90% of security workers are individuals of color and 44% are foreign-born, making the quest for equitable working conditions a matter of economic, racial, and immigrant justice.

In light of these challenges, 32BJ SEIU has initiated a campaign aimed at extending union protections to an additional 50,000 security officers across the city. The call to action is clear: it is imperative to protect those who ensure public safety and well-being by securing strong union representation for all security professionals. New Yorkers are encouraged to support this effort by advocating for their local security officers. For those interested in getting involved or seeking union representation, resources are available at seiu32bj.org/nycsecurityorganizing.