As Jennifer DeYoung is absolutely right that “changing union representation can get complicated” [“Fordham Guards Rally for Job Security,” Feb. 21–March 5 issue], please let me clear up two misconceptions about union recognition and job security for the security officers at Fordham University. If a new security contractor replaces Summit Security, they do not have to recognize Allied International Union — particularly if a majority of officers sign cards withdrawing their support for them. Even if Allied had a 10-year contract with Summit, the contract would have no effect at Fordham if the university hired a different security contractor. As for job security, new contractors typically retain the incumbent security guards because they don’t have their own pool of guards sitting around doing nothing waiting for a job. Even if that wasn’t the case, there is nothing stopping Fordham from requiring the new contractor to hire the incumbent workers.

If the choice for security guards is between continuing to work for Summit Security with Allied as their union or taking their chances with a new contractor, I think you will find that most would like to take that chance. But don’t take it from me. Go ask some campus security officers.

Matt Nerzig, Spokesman

Local 32BJ SEIU