Janitors' Association of the University of North Carolina.

The Janitors' Association was established in 1930 through the efforts of several janitors at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. Soon after its establishment, the University required all janitors to join the Association. Most of the members were African Americans. The Association's stated purpose was to promote cooperation between the janitors and the University administration and to "advance the moral standards and ideals of the janitors." Meetings were devoted to the discussion of job-related issues, such as salaries and uniforms, and the planning of social events.

From the description of Janitors' Association of the University of North Carolina records, 1933-1941. WorldCat record id: 33073350

The Janitors' Association of the University of North Carolina was organized in 1930 through the initiative of Kenon Cheek, Frank Hairston, Elliott Washington, and Melvin Rich, who were all then employed as janitors at the university. The association's purpose, as described in its constitution, was to promote better cooperation between the authorities of the University and the Janitors . . . [and] to advance better moral standards and ideals of the Janitors. The university administration not only approved the association, but made membership a requirement for all its janitors. Names of those delinquent in attending meetings and paying dues were reported to the Superintendent of Buildings. Continued delinquence could jeopardize a janitor's job.

The Janitors' Association functioned, in part, as a social organization, providing janitors with a means to meet and discuss many issues. Among the subjects discussed at meetings were salaries, uniforms, and other job-related agenda, as well as annual banquets and barbeques. Dues ranged from around $.05 monthly in 1934 to $.30 per month in the 1940s. Much of this money went towards organizing social events.

During the early years of the Janitors' Association, janitors not only provided cleaning services, but also painted, did repair work and carpentry, ran errands, and delivered campus mail. Janitors were assigned to specific sites, for which they were responsible. Pay was low; most of these men were supporting families on $10 a week while working over 50 hours per week.

From the guide to the Janitors' Association of the University of North Carolina Records, 1933-1941, (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Library. University Archives.)