Hundreds of security officers from across King County rallied at McGraw Square in downtown Seattle on Friday, June 13th, launching a bold campaign for a fair contract ahead of critical negotiations this summer. The rally brought together workers, elected officials, labor and community allies. Their message was clear: security officers deserve higher wages, affordable family healthcare, and respect on the job.
SEIU6 represents nearly 5,000 officers in the region whose collective bargaining agreement expires in August. Officers from sectors including tech, real estate, warehouse, and transit joined forces, highlighting their essential role in keeping Seattle’s bustling neighborhoods, offices, and transit systems safe.
“While on patrol, I found a man face down and unconscious at Westlake Station. His pulse was weak, and his face was blue around the mouth. I called it in, began CPR and didn’t stop until emergency services arrived on the scene,” said Reginald Anderson, a transit security officer. “Security officers do so much more than protect property. We help connect vulnerable people to resources. We help keep the community safe.”
Security officers emphasized their frontline status during the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing risks they face on a daily basis. Many shared their stories of administering Narcan, CPR, and first aid, bringing awareness to the life-saving nature of their work.
Seattle has one of the highest costs of living in the nation; the current wages security officers get paid lags far behind the area median income. Security officers aren’t paid nearly enough to afford to live in the city where they work. Officers are united and unwilling to budge on a reasonable set of demands for the value they add and for the communities they protect.
With Seattle set to host matches during the 2026 World Cup—an event expected to inject billions into the U.S. economy—officers’ role in ensuring public safety is more vital than ever. Officers demand a contract that reflects their contribution to the city’s prosperity and security.
The Security Contract Kickoff rally kicked off the first chapter in the fight for fair compensation and dignity on the job. As bargaining begins, security officers say they are ready to stand together until their demands are met.