SECURITY ON THE MOVE: Meet Helen, Fearless
The “Security On The Move...” campaign is gearing up with both the Metro and BOMA contracts, some of SEIU Local 1’s most comprehensive agreements. They are up for renewal in the spring of 2022. Each month, Local 1 will feature a security officer who is a bold and daring leader in their workplace. These features will be an opportunity for member leaders to share insights on their work and why being in a union is so important for working people. Each month, we will include a special Q&A interview with these movers in their own right with a one-word description that captures how they make a difference in their workplace. This month we’re kicking off this series with Helen Adair. FEARLESS.
Fearless. Security officers like Helen are the first line of interaction with the public and the first to be at the pulse of any conflict or event. Because they are the eyes and ears of their buildings, they work diligently to ensure everyone and everything around them is safe and protected. As a steward who also organizes her co-workers, Helen uses her collective power to encourage and inspire other security officer members to be more involved and have their voices heard in the workplace. She is a diligent leader who has organized her site to a majority support. Local 1 celebrates Helen's fortitude, organizing power, and leadership. It's time for all Security Officers to join Helen and "Get On The Move."
Below is a short Q and A from Helen.
Why did you become a security officer?
My job requires interactions with many different people, and although I am not a people person, I try to be myself - giving respect even if I'm not being respected. That's how I was raised. I have always aspired to be the person who helps others, and I have found that in this role.
Why did you want to get more involved with the union?
Like many, I didn't know there was a union and that they know the information, benefits, and rights we have on the job site. I wanted to know more. I wanted to learn more. I finally said, “Hey, how can I help?”
What was it like working during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Work was scary at first, even though I followed the rules. When Local 1 offered vaccinations, I went and got it. Since becoming vaccinated, I feel much safer, but unfortunately, many security officers are not vaccinated. We will be okay if we do the basics by wearing a mask, social distancing, washing our hands, and getting the vaccine. That is how we move forward, not backward. Regarding COVID on the job and our interactions with others, our safety is often disregarded Many [people] are hostile with us when we ask them to wear a mask, even when our health and
safety are at risk too. We need more worker protection.
Do you feel like you make enough to take care of yourself and your family?
No, I do feel underpaid, but I am hopeful with our union. If it wasn't for our union, I wouldn’t have found my voice to speak up and make a difference.
What changes do you want in the new contract?
We used to have dental insurance, and unfortunately, we no longer do. Dental insurance needs to be incorporated back into our contract, that's a basic necessity that we don't have. The sites tell us to get our own dental [insurance], even though we work for their company, and keep their
buildings safe.
How do you spend your time outside of work?
I’m a churchgoer and evangelist. I love to cook, and I love to bake. That’s what takes away my stress. I’ve been told I should open up my own business.
Anything else you want to say?
I think that people should know that our union is here to help and not here to take. If you get involved, you’ll see the progress we make and the positive impact our union has on us.
To win for our families and communities it’s important for us ALL to get involved! Want to be featured on the newsletter? Ready to fight for a strong new contract? CLICK HERE!