Mostly Latino immigrants, they worked long hours for little pay and no benefits, often under the harsh gaze of abusive supervisors. Calif. That day, June 15, is now commemorated each year as Justice for Janitors Day, reminding us all that many are still struggling under similar circumstances to gain a voice at work. Tens of thousands of workers took to the streets in these and other U.S. cities as part of Justice for Janitors 2000, and won dramatic raises, health insurance and full-time work in contract negotiations for 100,000 building service workers. Tangibly, this means tens of thousands of families now, for the first time, have health insurance that enables their children and spouses to see a doctor whenever they need one. It means decent salaries that enable janitors to move their families from cramped apartments and homes to larger ones where kids and parents can finally have their own bedrooms.
Immigrants work hard, pay taxes and make enormous contributions to our communities.
In return, too many receive poverty wages, few benefits, and terrible working conditions. Too many workers who are immigrants endure abuse by unscrupulous employers who threaten deportation for any who try to organize or defend their rights in the workplace. We salute the janitors of Los Angeles and countless other workers across the country, who teach us this lesson anew every day. And we proudly join them in their battle to ensure their hard work is fairly rewarded with decent salaries, dignity, and respect. Give us bread, but give us roses too.