CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- With the help of Chicago and Cook County, a trio of cleaning workers has created what’s said to be the first cooperative cleaning service on the Southeast Side of Chicago.
Mujeres Brillantes, the Brilliant Women Cleaning Cooperative is a businesses started by Estela Nava and two fellow workers, putting them in charge of their hours, earnings and such.
Nava fought back tears when thanking those who helped them start their business.
"My heart is so big. I have no words to say-thanks to the organization that help us do our dream."
The United Workers Center is one of those groups that helped them. Maricela Estrada is a Senior organizer.
"We are joining in solidarity with these women-helping them build their cleaning coopoerative from the ground up," she said.
10th Ward Alderwomen Susan Sadlowski-Garza applauded the women for taking a stand for themselves.
"These are workers, who have always been in the background-workers that have been exploited, workers that have been part of wage theft."
Nava said now cleaning workers won’t have to suffer abuse from employers any more, because they are the owners.
Related
Listen to WBBM Newsradio now on Audacy!
Sign up and follow WBBM Newsradio
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram