In the spring of 2003, over 300 Southern California faith leaders signed a statement of principles widely distributed to business leaders asking them to treat their janitors with justice.  The result was a resounding success!  With the support of the faith community, especially leaders who took a stand by signing this Statement of Principles, so many Southern California janitors won a contract that gave to them hard-earned raises and increased health care benefits.

Through our efforts we continue to witness the major obstacles faced by those who are working full time and living in poverty; sustainable wages and healthcare benefits remain out of reach for too many working families in San Diego County.

In accordance with the Word of God, we, as religious and business leaders, should strive towards a state in which all low-wage workers, whether they are direct employees or contracted out, should be:

• Paid a living wage that allows them to meet the basic needs of their families.
• Provided with full healthcare benefits for them and their families.
• Employed by companies that abide by all applicable laws - including the right to organize.
• Treated with the dignity and respect that they deserve.

It is important that faith leaders take a stand on behalf of low-income working families - together our voices can make a difference. Join your colleagues in faith by endorsing this Statement of Principles on behalf of workers!