How Daimler Trucks Stole Christmas

Daimler Trucks’ headquarters received a surprise visit this holiday season: Millennium Building Service janitors and supporters who stopped by to sing Christmas carols, modified with messages Daimler needs to hear. Instead of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” they sang, “We’ll Fight for Living Wages!” and other modified holiday classics.

Despite the light-hearted approach, Millennium janitors and supporters rose serious issues and made it clear they won’t stop fighting until they win a union.

Recently, Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) responded to Millennium janitors’ complaints regarding alleged retaliation for the use of protected sick time, and denial of access to protected sick time. Multiple MBS worker complaints with BOLI are still active, including two that were referred to BOLI’s civil rights division for further investigation.

“Daimler can help us make sure we have good jobs. But so far, they haven’t done their duty to listen to us, the janitors who clean these buildings,” said John Fundorhide, a Millennium janitor. “We are part of the team, and the community. Does Daimler think it’s fair that we make poverty wages?”