Security officers for Baltimore city buildings go on strike for third time since April
Security officers for Baltimore city buildings in the Harbor East community went on strike Friday to protest alleged discrimination and unfair labor practices.
The security officers formed a picket line at the Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore, at 650 S. Exeter St. in downtown Baltimore.
They said they are striking against their employer, Abacus Corporation. The contracted officers, who have been trying to unionize, held another strike in April.
"Baltimore City Councilwoman Odette Ramos will speak to Abacus officers who work a dangerous job without health care and have been unlawfully forbidden from speaking to the press about their working conditions, allege a recently filed unfair labor practice charge," said a statement from organizers of Friday's strike.
Leaders of SEUI 32 BJ, the largest property service worker union in the country, said charges filed in 2025 and 2026 on behalf of the workers include allegations of discrimination, coercion and firings for participation in union activities. The union has 1,700 members in Baltimore, and a total of 190,000 members across 12 states.
Another group of city contracted security officers also went on strike against their employer earlier this month.
Alleged lack of support for officers
One example from the SEUI 32 BJ said that with an increase in teen takeovers, altercations and disorderly conduct in Baltimore, one Abacus officer named Justin alleged he didn't receive the support he needed after a violent confrontation at 901 S. Bond Street on June 8.
"Before calling the police, perpetrators were banging on the windows, threw water bottles at him and even pushed their way into the building," the union said.
The strike organizers said the walkout was intended to emphasize the message that the workers just want to feel safe and be able to effectively perform their jobs.
The SEUI 32 BJ says it has filed seven complaints alleging unfair labor practices against Abacus with the National Labor Relations Board.
Abacus disputes allegations
In a statement, Abacus acknowledged Friday's strike action.
"We certainly understand the unique dangers of the security profession, and officer safety remains a top priority at Abacus. We are committed to providing all our team members with the most modern training, equipment, protocols, and support they need to do their jobs effectively while protecting those we serve," the company said. "We honor the men and women everywhere who risk their lives each day for others."
Abacus called the allegations raised by the striking workers "simply untrue."
"We will work through the established process, as required by law, to resolve this matter. This routine day-long union tactic will not affect our ability to serve our clients, and our teams will continue to provide the same high level of service our clients have come to expect from Abacus," the statement added.
The company said it believes its employees "are best served when they can raise questions or concerns directly."
