A group of about 100 to 200 Aramark custodians and janitors working at USC protested unfair wages, poor working conditions and labor exploitation on April 7. They marched from Bovard Auditorium up Trousdale Parkway to the intersection of West Jefferson Boulevard and Hoover Street before continuing on to the USC Village. In addition to the workers protesting, leaders of the USC Student Coalition Against Labor Exploitation spoke to the crowd totaling about 300 to 400 protesters.
The protest by USC students and custodial workers called for solidarity and support from the university. The organizers said that by pressuring USC to leverage its connection with Aramark, they hoped to reach their goal of raising wages and improving working conditions. If their needs aren’t met, they said they will consider the possibility of striking to initiate change.
Attendees take a rest during the protest as temperatures reach upwards of 90 degrees. (Photo by Yannick Peterhans) An attendee looks on during a rally held before the protest in front of USC’s Bovard auditorium. (Photo by Yannick Peterhans) One of the organizers holds a sign reading “Janitors Ready 2 Strike.” The 20-foot sign was held by five people and led the front of the march to the USC village. (Photo by Yannick Peterhans) Custodians hold signs as the protest blocks the intersection for around three to five traffic light cycles. Security diverted cars around the protest as their presence inhibited commuters. (Photo by Jason Goode) When the protest stopped traffic at the intersection of West Jefferson and Hoover, many motorists were upset, with some yelling and threatening protesters who were in their way. (Photo by Jason Goode) A USC student holds up a sign and stands with the protestors encircling West Jefferson Boulevard and Hoover Street. (Photo by Yannick Peterhans) Protesters leave the crosswalk to the USC Village and take up the entire path via the sidewalk between lines of shops such as Starbucks, Rock & Reilly’s, Lululemon and Stout Burgers & Beer. (Photo by Jason Goode) Organizers of the march stand in the USC village as the march comes to an end. A new march was promised to happen every single week until the janitors’ pay is raised. (Photo by Yannick Peterhans)
