People employed to clean and maintain buildings like schools, offices, or public spaces.
From Latin 'janitor' (doorkeeper), from 'janus' (door). Originally meant the person who guarded the door; the meaning expanded to include general building maintenance.
The word 'janitor' comes from Janus, the Roman god of doorways who had two faces to guard both entrances and exits—so janitors were originally just the guys protecting the doors!
Janitorial work became feminized in the 20th century, shifting from male-dominated trades to underpaid, largely female-immigrant labor. Language that names the role equally applies to all genders but usage patterns often erase contributions.
Use 'janitor' neutrally for any person in this role; actively credit specific individuals' labor and expertise when naming contributions.
["custodian (neutral alternative with equivalent status)"]
Women janitors, many immigrants, often rendered invisible—recognize named individuals' skill in facility maintenance and safety protocols.
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