rnDC Jobs with Justice History and Accomplishments:rn
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rnDC Jobs with Justice (DC JwJ) was formed during the summer of 2001 with the purpose of bringing together labor, community, faith-based, and student organizations to build power for working families in Washington, DC. The coalition initially came together in support of efforts by parking garage attendants, most of whom were Ethiopian immigrants, to organize a union. rn
rnThe primary issue we have sought to address is the existence of very low-wage jobs with inadequate or no benefits. The result of this situation is that many people who work hard remain poor, often relying on public resources to meet family needs or working multiple jobs to get by. We seek to address this situation by supporting the efforts of workers in these low-wage industries to form unions, thus gaining the power to negotiate with their employers for living wages and family-sustaining benefits. rn
rnOver our eleven-year history, we have worked with DC residents, workers, and consumers to build power and win real improvements for working families in Washington, DC. Our victories include leading a coalition to pass Living Wage and Paid Sick Days laws in DC; and helping janitors, hotel workers, parking attendants, and grocery retail store workers win labor contracts with higher wages, paid sick leave, health care benefits, and job security.rn
rnThrough all of our campaigns, we are constantly testing and improving strategies developed for consumers, community members, and faith leaders as allies for workers in seeking justice.