At resolution event in support of Cincinnati janitors at Cincinnati City Hall are, from left, City Councilmember P.G. Sittenfeld, with local janitors Yanela Sims, David Dean, Sam Holloway, Carolyn Ulmer and Tarik Watson. Photo provided
By Alejandra Flores
SEIU Local 1 Janitors
The Cincinnati City Council recently passed a resolution in support of janitors across the city — many of whom work in major office buildings downtown in their fight for a path to $15 hourly wage and better benefits through a strong, new union contract. The resolution sends a clear message to major contractors that Cincinnati elected leaders stand with Local 1 Janitors in their fight for One Cincinnati with higher wages and benefits for all working families.
“With this resolution, city council is making it clear – and official – that we support and stand with SEIU janitors,” said Cincinnati City Councilmember P.G. Sittenfeld, who sponsored the resolution. “Our janitors help take care of the city, and we need to take care of them.”
Last week, Cincinnati janitors, supporters and allies, whom the Council honors in its resolution, spoke out and rallied to win a stronger union contract that will cover more than 600 janitors in Cincinnati — helping janitors get on a path to $15 with better benefits. As many janitors can’t make ends meet, they continue to fight for a path that will lift them out of poverty and be a part of Cincinnati’s resurgence.
“Together, we have the power to speak out against injustice, as we fight for higher wages, better benefits and unions for all,” said Cincinnati janitor David Dean, currently working for Atrium Two office building.