A group of security guards employed by major AI firms in the Bay Area has announced their intention to strike in response to increasing threats facing these tech companies.
The guards, representing firms like Anthropic, Microsoft, OpenAI, Google, and Amazon, are set to strike this Friday due to a contract dispute regarding wages. This action may lead to the closure of some tech offices.
SEIU-United Services Workers West, which represents roughly 14,000 security personnel across California, has planned the walkout to commence after 4:30 a.m., according to a report by Business Insider.
The conflict revolves around proposed wage increases that the union argues do not sufficiently address the ongoing cost of living crisis. They’ve expressed concerns over inadequate raises — only 65 cents over the next two years from several large security companies like Allied Universal, Securitas, GardaWorld, Prosegur, and Inter-Con.
Earlier this month, security workers gathered in downtown San Francisco to draw attention to what they see as an ever-widening wealth gap between themselves and the tech employees they protect.
During the rally, SEIU members were heard chanting, “Protect the rich, while we get poor? Hell no, we won’t take it no more!” A security guard, Jerry LaGuardia, shared his frustrations, stating, “Here I am standing here watching this, being paid pennies. Pennies. And that hurts.”
If the strike proceeds, it could prompt some companies to close temporarily or shift to remote work arrangements. Anthropic has reportedly alerted its employees about the potential for staffing shortages due to the strike.
Negotiations with the security companies are scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, so a walkout is not yet certain. This impending strike occurs against a backdrop of escalating security issues and public discontent with AI technologies.
Earlier in the year, there was a concerning incident where a man gained entry to Anthropic’s headquarters, allegedly conveying a grim message about a threat made against a top executive.
Additionally, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s home was targeted in an alarming firebombing attempt, followed by an incident where shots were fired nearby.
While Anthropic has not verified the April incident specifics, they maintain they have had around-the-clock security since 2024 and keep employees informed about potential threats. The public sentiment seems to be shifting negatively towards AI, particularly as it is increasingly implicated in job layoffs.
