Janitors march in Costa Mesa

Several hundred janitors and their supporters marched up Bristol Avenue and Anton Boulevard today, occasionally blocking traffic and chanting “huelga, huelga, huelga” — or “strike, strike, strike” in Spanish.

The rally started at noon and lasted for nearly two hours in the area near South Coast Plaza. The janitors, represented by the Service Employees International Union, were calling on the Irvine Co. to employ their clout with local janitorial contractors and help negotiate a new contract for the workers, some of whom make less than $8.50 an hour.

The janitors’ last collective contract expired on April 30, prompting the unions to authorize their leaders to call a strike.

The demonstration followed a walkout by Los Angeles janitors also represented by the Service Employees International Union Thursday, though Orange County janitors have yet to stop working.

While the Los Angeles janitors were back to work Friday during a “cooling-off” period brokered by Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, union spokeswoman Gina Bowers indicated that an Orange County strike was “likely on the horizon” in the coming days.

Celsa Romero, a Santa Ana janitor who brought her two young children, Anthony and Lisamarie, to the protest in Costa Mesa, said she felt “great” demonstrating for higher wages.

“I just want a better wage, and better living, for my family,” she said. “That’s what I’m standing for.”

Some motorists, upset by the blocked traffic caused by the demonstration, repeatedly honked their horns and expressed some frustration at union organizers.

Seung Tong of Fountain Valley, waiting to pull on the 405 freeway on Bristol Street, said he had no idea what the demonstration was about.

“Can’t they let cars just cut through?” he asked. “I’m busy!”

CHRIS CAESAR may be reached at (714) 966-4626 or at chris.caesar@latimes.com.