News

UNI Global Union is in mourning following a mass shooting at a Californian care center in which members of UNI affiliate SEIU were employed.

Gunmen opened fire at the Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino, California on Wednesday killing at least 14 people and wounding 17 others. Details regarding SEIU 721 members affected by the shooting remain uncertain but it is known that many SEIU members work in areas very close to where the tragic event took place.

Bob Schoonover, President of SEIU Local 721 said, “While we don't yet know the details of this act of senseless violence, we do know that each of our members who has dedicated their lives to public service will hold our families closer tonight.”

“SEIU 721 members are proud to serve the San Bernardino community, and we will stand with the community during this tragedy, as we do each day.”

Reacting to news of the attacks, UNI Global Union General Secretary Philip Jennings said, “The thoughts of the entire UNI Global Union family rest with the victims of this senseless attack as well as their families and the wider San Bernardino community.”

“This is a workplace in which people devote their lives to caring for the disabled. We stand united with our brothers and sisters at the SEIU at this difficult time.”

International President of the Service Employees International Union Mary Kay Henry said, “Another day, another mass murder of innocent people who were just trying to live their lives and do their jobs. Tonight our union is grieving after the attack at the Inland Regional Center, where SEIU caregivers who serve the disabled and their families work every day.

“Tonight, we pray for all of the victims and their families, the entire San Bernardino community, and for our nation, that this senseless violence will end. We can honor those who have lost their lives and who will never be the same by uniting to demand that our nation does everything to ensure that no more families have to feel this pain, sadness and loss ever again.”