The following statement is attributable to Jaime Contreras, Vice President of 32BJ SEIU, the nation’s largest property service workers union, with over 175,000 members in 11 states, including over 1,000 federally contracted janitors and security officers in the D.C. area and New York City:
“Essential frontline workers doing the thankless, dangerous but vital jobs to keep us healthy and safe have long deserved a livable wage that’s critical to helping them better support themselves and their families. Not only is President Biden helping to lift communities out of poverty and improve lives, but he’s also enabling working families to better support local businesses, boost our economy and alleviate overburdened state and federal programs.
The ripple effect cannot be underestimated, and jurisdictions nationwide, including Congress would be wise to follow this responsible example. By ensuring livable wages for a mostly Black and Brown workforce, Biden will also aid our nation’s recovery, while taking a step towards tackling extreme racial inequities in health and wealth among communities infected by COVID-19 at devastating rates, and bearing a greater burden of the pandemic’s economic fallout.”
With more than 175,000 members in 11 states, including over 20,000 in the D.C. area and Baltimore, MD, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property service workers union in the country.
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