University of Tennessee Custodial Workers Rally for Higher Pay and Fair Treatment

Last week, over 50 campus workers and students rallied with custodial staff at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville for higher pay and fair treatment. A majority of building services custodians, members of United Campus Workers-CWA Local 3865, signed a petition demanding a minimum wage of $20/hour, fair sick leave policies, and an end to mandatory overtime, including at football games. “We work 12 hours straight without a break,” said Patrica Curtis, a Building Services custodian, when talking about her gameday schedule. “I came in at 10 a.m. to 10 at night, no break. These people treat us with such disrespect and violate our human rights. You can’t miss one day of work without getting a doctor’s note.”

State representative Gloria Johnson and other guest speakers gave remarks in support of the workers demands. At the end of the rally, the crowd delivered the petition to Chancellor Donde Plowman’s office. They also requested a meeting with the Chancellor to further address challenges the workers are facing.

University of Tennessee, Knoxville custodial staff, members of United Campus Workers-CWA Local 3865, rallied with over 50 campus workers and students for higher pay and fair treatment.