When janitors at Saint Mary’s College in Moraga learned that the college’s janitorial contract with ABM was going out to bid, they feared losing the wages, benefits, and protections they had fought so hard to win through their union contract.
Instead of waiting to see what would happen, the janitors organized.
Marisela Espinosa, a janitor at St Mary’s explains: “After meeting with the university and explaining just how much the benefits we’ve won through our union mean to our families, they finally understood our reality.
They told us they would keep all the janitors on because they consider us St. Mary’s employees, and that the new employer would respect and honor our union contract.
For me, this was about much more than just keeping our jobs. It was proof that when workers stand united and organized—fighting together—our voices carry weight and can make a real difference.
I am deeply proud of my coworkers and everything we achieved together. The benefits, security, and rights we enjoy didn’t just happen on their own; they are the result of the hard work, solidarity, and unity of workers who chose to stand up for one another.
This experience reminded me of something vital: we are stronger when we stand united as a union. And when we fight together, we can ensure our voices are heard and our work is respected.”