PSLM Pickets Boston Properties

The Progressive Student Labor Movement (PSLM) picketed and leafleted inside the building located at 124 Mt. Auburn St. this week in support of striking janitors in Baltimore.

PSLM gained widespread national attention for a 21-day sit-in this spring demanding an end to “poverty wages” paid to University janitors.

Tuesday’s action was directed against Boston Properties, which owns 124 Mt. Auburn—home to both commercial and residential tenants, including some University offices—and is one of the largest developers in the country.

Boston Properties has refused to recognize the unionization efforts of the janitors who clean its properties in Baltimore.

About 25 members of PSLM, joined by Harvard janitors, entered the building on Tuesday and leafleted through the building. When the group returned Wednesday, they were stopped by officers from the Harvard University Police Department (HUPD).

PSLM members then reentered through the parking garage and hung a banner inside the building’s atrium. HUPD officers eventually escorted the chanting protesters from the building.

PSLM members questioned the use of University police to police buildings owned by Boston Properties.

“They must be practicing solidarity among poverty wage employers,” said PSLM member Benjamin L. McKean ’02.