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USA: ConEd energy contractor accused of retaliating against migrant cleaners as they fight for improved pay & conditions; incl. co. comments
44 workers at Nelson Services Systems walked off six Con Edison locations in New York in January 2025, accusing the contract of unfair labour practices, filed with the National Labor Relations Board by one of New York's leading unions in November 2024.
“The working people who keep Con Edison offices clean and safely operating are essential workers. They deserve some respect. Unfortunately, Nelson Services Systems, the contractor who employs these workers, is undercutting labor standards that organized blue-collar New Yorkers have fought decades to establish for the professional cleaning service sector.Denis Johnston, executive vice president of 32BJ SEIU
Immigrant cleaners at ConEd facilities across New York City were reportedly retaliated against when they tried to fight for improved pay and working conditions, including being paid poverty wages. Retaliatory activity by the company includes arbitrary enforcement of a previously unenforced dress code as well as surveilling worker activity.
A representative with Con Edison deferred the matter to Nelson Service Systems, which did not respond to a request for comment from media.