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WHEREAS, thirty years ago, in the face of wage cuts and benefit reductions, 1,000 janitors in Pittsburgh launched a nationwide movement for justice, and stood strong through an 18-month lockout by their employers; and
WHEREAS, In the spring of 1990 similarly underpaid janitors in Los Angeles were fighting for higher wages, a union, and a better future when on June 15, while peacefully marching in the wealthy Century City district, these men and women were suddenly and brutally beaten by police, launching what was to become known as the Justice for Janitors campaign; and
WHEREAS, Pittsburgh janitors have continually stood strong as the real estate industry has shifted to subcontracting janitorial work, which has splintered the workforce and chipped away at hours and pay; and
WHEREAS, Through sustained action and community support these courageous janitors have now won back decent wages and a strong contract and serve as an inspiration to janitors across the country with a long struggle ahead; and
WHEREAS, In Pittsburgh, Los Angeles and elsewhere, the leaders of the Justice for Janitors campaign have used nonviolent demonstration, community support, and a new understanding of the real estate industry to win not just hearts and minds but strong contracts; and
WHEREAS, Much like the Fight for 15 today, those leaders were the invisible ones - immigrants, women, people of color - who found a new level of dignity, respect and collective power through organizing and a union; and
WHEREAS, June 15 is now nationally celebrated as Justice for Janitors Day, as our struggles for workplace fairness, dignity and respect continue; and
WHEREAS, The janitors in Pittsburgh who fought so bravely 30 years ago for good jobs with family-sustaining wages are now the bedrock of a growing economy and stand shoulder to shoulder with fast food and other low-wage workers in their struggles today.
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of th...
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