COVID-19 has further exposed the major gaps in workplace protections and benefits for big tech’s contractors and employees. Amid the pandemic, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos’ wealth has grown by $24 billion, while frontline Amazon workers who have protested for protective equipment, hazard pay, and expanded sick leave have been fired in retaliation. Although the relief bill that was recently signed will provide short-term support for some workers at Uber, Lyft, Postmates, Instacart, and Amazon, many of these workers are not entitled to workers’ compensation, health care benefits, or sick pay.
This webinar explored the demand for workers protections during COVID-19, as well as the advocacy strategies that are being used – from walk-outs to the demand for the creation of employer generation hardship funds – as well as the long-term goal of permanent protections for workers.
Speakers
Michelle Miller, Coworker
Dania Rajendra, Athena Coalition
Derecka Mehrens, Gig Workers Rising
Abdi Muse, Awood Center
Moderator
Amber French, Media Democracy Fund
Video archive
Password: WORKERS
One-sheet summary
Co-sponsored by Ariadne Network, Human Rights Funders Network, Neighborhood Funders Group, and Rockefeller Brothers Fund.
