One of the great injustices of our nation’s labor laws is that they stop short of protecting the workers who are closest to us – domestic workers who care for our homes, children, and other family members – workers who are often referred to as a “member of the family.”
Bend the Arc is part of a broad coalition of people and organizations working to correct the longstanding exclusion of domestic workers from basic labor protections that most American workers take for granted. This exclusion, which was codified into federal law in the 1930s, is rooted in discrimination against women and people of color. It’s time to end the decades of injustice toward nannies, caregivers, and housecleaners who work in homes across California. It’s time to bring them into the fold and change the culture of domestic employment.
Watch this video to learn more about our campaign:
What is the Domestic Workers Bill of Rights?
The Domestic Workers Bill of Rights (AB 889) will provide much needed protections for this highly vulnerable workforce. It will mandate:
- Equal overtime pay
- Equal right to worker’s compensation
- Equal right to reporting time pay
- The right to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep under adequate conditions
- The right to cook one’s own food
This bill (AB 889) was introduced in February 2011, passed the California State Assembly and will soon be voted on by the California Senate.
Our Goal is to Transform the Domestic Work Industry by:
- Passing the California Domestic Workers Bill of Rights in partnership with workers and allies in the California Domestic Workers Coalition.
- Persuading employers of nannies, housecleaners and caregivers to adopt ethical employment practices.
How Can You Help?
1. Join us in Sacramento on August 21st!
Mobilize yourself and outreach to colleagues and friends! If you are part of an organization, organize a delegation of at least 10 people to come out with us!
- Buses from SoCal will leave August 20th evening (time TBD)
- Buses will leave at 8:30 AM from San Francisco & Oakland
- Please RVSP by emailing DWcampaign@bendthearc.us
2. Active participation from the ground.
- Make 50 calls and send 100 e-mail faxes to Governor Brown’s Office.
- Call your senator August 15.
3. Become an Online Ambassador:
4. Download Our Magnet:
- Employers of domestic workers can take one step forward following these simple guidelines.
Learn more about why fair treatment for domestic workers is Jewish.
Find out more about the national Caring Across Generations campaign.
