This 1989 study of building service work written by Paul Schimek and published by SEIU Local 399 is an example of the union’s use of research to influence the public debate on equitable development in Los Angeles. Declaring that “Los Angeles should work for everyone,” the report highlighted the contrast between the prosperity of building owners–mainly white citizens–and the workers who cleaned buildings–mainly immigrants and women. Among other facts, the report noted that only 3% of office tenants’ rent went to janitors’ wages, while nearly 60% went to owners profits. It provides an early example of a mode of labor research and storytelling that has become foundational to many organizing campaigns today.

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