Wednesday, March 8, 2000
 
letters to the editor
 


Concerned grandparents of Wesleyan student identify with the Initial janitors

Dear President Bennet,

As grandparents of a Wesleyan student, we are pleased to learn that she has chosen to join other students in asking that employees of the University be given a living wage, medical benefits, pension, job security, vacations. The fact that the janitorial work is given to a subcontractor does not mitigate the responsibility of the university, which signs the contract in the first instance, and which cannot, from any standpoint, dodge its moral responsibility. There is no excuse for Wesleyan, rich in resources, to stand off from this matter of simple fairness. 

We are proud that our granddaughter is involved in a campaign -- it is an essential part of her education. We hope that you will express your pride in the commitment of Wesleyan students to social justice, by taking a strong hand in redressing this just grievance.

Sincerely,

Howard and Roslyn Zinn

Initial worker wants more for his efforts 

My name is Jose Aquino. I am an employee of INITIAL and I've been working at the university for three years. I believe it's just and fair that the University should support our campaign. There has to be some justice for the people who clean your campus. We help
keep the university clean, that should count for something. Please keep in mind that the cost of living is very expensive and most of us have children to support.

To all students and professors who support us, thank you.

Jose Aquino