Unionized security officers in the Chicago metro area kicked off their campaign for a new contract Thursday with a call for higher wages. 

The metro Chicago security guards, represented by SEIU* Local 1, earn a median wage of $11.25 an hour. Their contract expires December 1.

As part of their contract campaign, the officers, who provide security at places such as the University of Chicago, the Chicago Housing Authority, United Airlines in the Willis Tower and Maggie Daley Park, are holding a roundtable discussion this morning with U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL,2) to “discuss how a higher wage would help make their families and communities safer,” according to the union. 

“Chicago’s high firearm murder rate is directly related to its racialized income and wealth inequality,” the union added. “Improving service jobs, such as security jobs, is a direct route toward improving conditions in these neighborhoods and lowering our city’s homicide rate. As working people who live on the lower end of the economic spectrum, these officers oftentimes reside in some of Chicago’s roughest neighborhoods.”

*The SEIU Illinois Council sponsors this website.