Nationally, domestic workers have been excluded from the most basic labor protections, including those that protect the right to organize and bargain collectively.  After a four-year campaign by a coalition of thirty-one faith-based, labor, and community organizations, ground-breaking legislation to protect domestic workers rights in Montgomery County will have its FINAL VOTE in the County Council this Tuesday, July 15th.  If it passes this will be the first bill of its kind in the nation.

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

Domestic workers are excluded from every major federal labor protection: they are excluded from the Civil Rights Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, and even the fundamental right to organize. I strongly urge your support for Bill 2-08 to help protect this most vulnerable workforce and create the tools to help them seek justice.

The nannies, housekeepers, and elder companions who keep our homes and our families safe and secure are routinely denied overtime pay, minimum wage, sick days, and health insurance. They work in isolation, and in some cases are forbidden to interact with the outside world. Many are physically, sexually, and verbally abused and are among the vulnerable in our community. Bill 2-08 will not only help protect these workers but will continue Montgomery County's role as a national leader by being the first such bill of its kind in the nation. I urge you to continue to exercise leadership and work to make sure your colleagues share your commitment to justice and worker rights by voting for Bill 2-08 on Tuesday.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
July 11, 2008