April 28, 2000 – "Rage Against the Machine would like to congratulate the Janitors Union of Los Angeles on their victory in their struggle for better wages and dignity in the workplace. This win over management is a perfect example of what can happen when workers, students and the community show solidarity in fighting for social justice."

Background on the janitors' strike:

On April 3, 2000, more than 4,000 janitors, who clean high-rise office buildings throughout Los Angeles County, walked out on strike. This strike sought to bring attention to the disparity between the rich and the working poor in Los Angeles. The janitors' key demand was wage and benefit increases to lift them above the nation's federal poverty line.

On April 24, janitors voted overwhelmingly to ratify a contract offer reached after marathon bargaining sessions. The three-year contract won by janitors includes more than 25% wage increases for workers in Downtown Los Angeles and Century City and more than 26% increases for janitors working in outlying areas. Janitors also secured paid sick leave days and the maintenance of employer-paid family healthcare coverage. By the end of the of the contract term, the 8500 janitors covered by the agreement will be earning wages that place them above the poverty line.