Screw the Hierarchy

15 workers' rights worth fighting for across the country

Episode Summary

Abuse at work can come in many forms: Discrimination against independent contractors, volunteers, interns, fellows, and trainees Retaliation against workers who share wage information Employers interfering in union elections Constructive discharge (pushing workers out) Tying your healthcare to your job Paying you a non-livable wage Requiring you to stay silent when an employer pays you for their wrongdoings through a settlement Not treating you like a human by granting you bereavement leave Requiring you to waive your rights to accept the job Paying you below the minimum wage just because you make tips Giving you fewer than 14 days notice to work a shift, retaliating against you for requesting specific hours, requiring you to work back-to-back closing and opening shifts, and hiring new employees when you're looking for more hours available Stealing wages Not providing enough sick leave during COVID Not paying for some portion of leave when needing to care for a family member Verbal abuse, sabotage, and other forms of abuse of power that violate a worker's right to dignity In this episode, I talk about proposed legislation across the country that deals with these issues. Passing these bills will advance workers' rights in a culture where workers are treated like means to stuff higher-ups pockets rather than humans. If you've been abused at work related to your race, gender, disability, age, or other demographic and would like to share your story anonymously, email info@dignitytogether.org. If you feel like you need more help, I have a free guide to recovery steps at dignitytogether.org/targets and a signup for daily boosts through your inbox at the same place. Facebook: @HierarchyPodcast Twitter: @ScrewHierarchy