The author reflects on a pivotal experience from 25 years ago during the SEIU Justice for Janitors campaign. They emphasize the importance of valuing grassroots voices within union organizing. When a group of activist janitors, mostly Latina women, proposed immediate action against their employer’s plan to reduce hours and change contractors, their needs were sidelined for what the author perceived as a more strategic plan. This experience underlines the significance of acknowledging and integrating grassroots insights into organizational tactics, especially in labor movements.,
"I pushed aside their instincts for the 'smart' ones I was executing. I told them I was working with the facilities guy through strategic discussions, neglecting their urgency."
"These women were passionate and had a strong grasp of the on-ground reality, yet I invalidated their contributions, thinking I knew better. Lessons were learned about timing and respect for grassroots activism."
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