Storming on Sodexo

It was quiet and still outside Sodexo’s regional office in Cranford, New Jersey. The stillness was broken by a river of purple — purple shirts, purple ski caps, purple scarves, purple jackets – a sure sign the silence would soon too be broken. Gerard Lyons, Local 200United member, officer, and representative from Marist College, led one of several chants which cut through the silence: “What’s disgusting?” “Union Busting!”

This rally was a part of an aggressive organizing campaign here at Local 200United.  With dozens of contracts at colleges and universities spanning New York State, we are working with current members to help us organize new shops and build power across the region. Whether a worker is a custodian, or an administrative assistant, a food service worker, or a housekeeper, a librarian, or a maintenance mechanic, and whether they work for the school or for a contractor like Sodexo, they have the right to build power by becoming a member of Local 200United.

Food Service Workers: No Paid Sick Time?!

It's startling to think that some of our schools' food service workers do not have the sick time they need.  Like Cathy Gaul, a food service worker from Illinois, says, part-timers don't even get health insurance, let alone sick time:



We simply cannot tolerate this type of treatment for workers.  It's time to come together and fight for better wages, better benefits, and sick days.  How can workers choose between the welfare of the students they serve and the welfare of their families? With a better work environment, workers won't have to choose. 

It's time to organize!

  Are you ready to stand up for you, your family, and your coworkers?
Let us know!

Why Union?

We at SEIU Local 200United believe in the Union Difference, and have seen what it gives workers everyday.  Why organize?  Unions improve wages, benefits, and give workers a voice.  Listen to the voices of some of our College and University workers:

SEIU Local 200United has helped me take care of my family, and I enjoy being in the union.  This is one of the best unions.
Cathy Bradford, Chef Helper
Vassar College

Along with all the good things the Union provides me with, the sense of community it brings with all the Union brothers and sisters is the best.
Warren DesJardins
Skidmore College

As a student at Bard College, I stand behind SEIU Local 200United to represent our workers and help them have a strong voice that leverages to resolve their labor issues … every worker should have the right to be organized.
Katie Reed, Student
Bard College