On St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, nearly 300 Oxnard temporary workers were officially recognized as SEIU 721’s newest members.
The City of Oxnard employs hundreds of so-called “temporary” workers, many of whom work full-time for years alongside permanent city employees doing the same type of work, with no health or retirement benefits, or job security.
After filing an official petition for union recognition in September, Oxnard temporary employees have spent the last few months speaking to city council members, meeting with community groups, and taking their stories public.
Workers Get Support from Other SEIU 721 Members
Many permanent Oxnard city employees and Ventura County workers, who are also members of SEIU 721, joined them as they testified at city council meetings about their working conditions and the impact of not having benefits.
Today, these workers have a voice at work, and will begin negotiating their first contract.
“I have hope for the future and I’m hoping to finally have health insurance when we get a contract.”
> Sandra Villa, City of Oxnard Environmental Resources, a 12-year city temporary worker.
“I’m excited to build our union and negotiate our first contract.”
> Christine Agustin, City of Oxnard Developmental Services. A five-year city temporary worker.
“I am looking forward to building a partnership that benefits workers and the city.”
> Norma Rios, City of Oxnard Housing Resident Initiatives, A 15-year city temporary worker.