Watch CBS News

Security Officers Hold Rally Downtown For Better Pay, Health Care

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - The fight for better pay and benefits is still ongoing for many local security guards.

This morning, dozens of security officers marched through the streets of downtown Pittsburgh.

The security officers want better wages, more affordable health care and professional training.

Last October, more than 1,000 security officers, working for various companies in the city, organized to become part of the Service Employees International Union.

They negotiated a contract with a dozen different companies. Now, they want more contractors to be on board.

"AM-Gard is one company that performs the security for the Pittsburgh Parking Authority. OSS is another company that have refused to allow their workers to have a fair process to join the union," Sam Williamson said.

Maria Centeno is one of the security guards who pushed to join local 32BJ.

She says it changed her life and she wants to make sure others in the same position experience the same benefits.

"Now, when I get paid, I don't have to worry about which bill I have to pay today, do I pay my rent or do I pay my light and gas first? Now, I can pay my bills on time. I can be able to support my children the way I'm supposed to support them and give them what they need," Centeno said.

Organizers of the rally say they will continue to push for change - not only for the security guards, but for Pittsburgh as a whole.

"If we want to have one Pittsburgh, if we want to have a strong middle class for the 21st century, we've got to make sure that every company is investing in its lowest paid workers," Williamson said.

KDKA-TV's calls to AM-Gard and OSS were not immediately returned.

Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.