The workers are demanding that the prestigious college pay a living wage
After faltering negotiations with Pomona College, At 6:00 a.m. Friday morning, dozens of dining room workers at Pomona College went on strike as the family weekend began.
The primary contract demand from workers is a substantial increase to keep up with the rising cost of living. The MIT Living Wage Calculator estimates that a living wage for a family of four with two working adults in Los Angeles County is $30.73 per hour. Some dining room workers, the overwhelming majority of whom are black, earn $18.00 an hour.
“I’m on strike because I deserve to take care of my family the same way I take care of Pomona’s wonderful students. As a skilled worker at Pomona College, my job contributes to the health and well-being of the students and to the overall success of the college.” said Marie O’Campo, baker of 8 years at Pomona College.
Pomona College has consistently been ranked among the most prestigious colleges and universities in the country. Dining room clerks at similarly prestigious universities such as Yale University and Wesleyan College make more than $30.00 an hour.
Pomona College’s $3 billion endowment is the 7thth highest of any US university and college – ahead of Yale and Wesleyan – on a per-student basis. Earlier this fall, Pomona opened a new $57 million athletic facility.
“I’m striking because I want more for myself and my family. There are employees who have been working here for 30 years or more and earn more. I hope one day I can make enough money to buy a house,” he told Hector Melendrez, who earns $18.00 an hour as a laborer.
“Pomona College has failed to meet workers’ demands. They have made a bold move and we hope the college will finally listen to their concerns and pay them the living wage they deserve,” said Kurt Petersen, co-president of UNITE HERE Local 11.
UNITE HERE Local 11 is a union representing over 32,000 hospitality guests…
