Pittsburgh – Union leadership from 32BJ SEIU and Councilman Robert Lavelle (D-6th) today met with representatives of the Steelers concerning the termination of the Heinz Field security contractor, U.S. Security. The termination leaves 15 union security officers without a job. With little notice, the security officers – members of 32BJ SEIU – were notified that their last day is this Sunday. The meeting followed a noon press conference where the security officers were supported by colleagues, commercial office cleaners, faith leaders, and allies.

“Councilman Lavelle and I had an open and honest meeting with the Steelers. We want them to understand that these officers just want to keep their jobs. Many have longstanding careers here and enjoy their jobs protecting fans and guarding one of the city’s most treasured venues. Last year, they organized and joined more than 1,000 colleagues for their first ever union contract. They now earn a living wage, affordable benefits, and professionalized training which protects these good jobs,” said Sam Williamson, Western Pennsylvania Area Director, 32BJ SEIU.

The workers turned over a petition calling on the team to protect their jobs and employment standards by keeping U.S. Security. They also presented a letter to front office management signed by all nine members of City Council calling for the team to keep the union workers.

Following the meeting, the Steelers said they would hold some internal meetings and get back to the union with possible resolutions.

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With 155,000 members in eleven states and Washington, D.C., including 22,000 in Pennsylvania, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property service workers union in the country.