NDWA NEWSLETTER | FEBRUARY 2024
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Honoring Black Immigrant Domestic Workers: Take Action Now

As we uplift the essential contributions of Black domestic workers in the US, we want to focus the spotlight on Black immigrant domestic workers, many of whom are made vulnerable to exploitation and abuse due to their immigration status.
Immigrants comprise over 45% of the domestic workforce, with a significant portion being Black women living at the intersection of gender, class, and racial discrimination.

These workers often encounter barriers to fair wages, with many earning less than the minimum wage, and lack access to basic labor protections and safe working conditions. But the fear of deportation and legal repercussions often prevents these workers from speaking out against injustices.

Despite these challenges, Black immigrant domestic workers make immense contributions to the American economy and the well-being of families [[link removed]] . They provide essential care that enables other sectors of the economy to flourish, supporting the upbringing of children, the care of the elderly, and the maintenance of households.

Through our We Dream in Black initiative, we are working to build a future where all domestic workers are included in labor laws, protected from abusive conditions in the workplace, and paid the fair wages that they deserve.

Help us build a more inclusive and equitable future for generations to come: stand in solidarity with Black immigrant domestic workers and sign our pledge [[link removed]] . Join us as we advocate for their rights, recognize their contributions to our society, and amplify their voices.

SIGN THE PLEDGE › [[link removed]]
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We've Moved: NY Office Address Update

Please note that our New York office has relocated. Update your records with our new address to stay connected:

45 Broadway, Suite 2240, New York, NY 10006
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Support the Child Tax Credit Expansion

The proposed bipartisan Child Tax Credit expansion promises to be a game-changer, potentially lifting 400,000 children above the poverty line. This legislation is crucial, especially for domestic workers, who, despite being primary earners, often earn wages too low to qualify for current child tax credit benefits.

Shockingly, under the existing system, families earning up to $400,000 receive more substantial benefits than those making $15,000. This disparity has left approximately 16 million children, including 3 million under three years old, without full access to the credit due to low family income.

Your Voice Matters: take action TODAY [[link removed]] by urging your senators to request Senate
Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to prioritize this bill for a vote once the Senate reconvenes after its recess. This is not just about legislation; it's about fairness, equity, and the well-being of millions of children and families across the country.

Together, we can ensure a brighter future for all children. Act now to make a difference [[link removed]] .

TAKE ACTION › [[link removed]]
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In the States

GEORGIA. NDWA Georgia and the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities recently joined forces at the state capitol to advocate for a state budget that meets the needs of Georgians with disabilities. The Georgia team is focused on two main issues—making home and community-based services more accessible and increasing wages for care workers. A fair budget is essential for all Georgians to thrive and we're committed to making sure that happens.

PENNSYLVANIA. On Valentine's Day, t he Philadelphia chapter of NDWA sent a delegation of worker leaders to city hall to ask for little extra love in the city's budget —with a playful reminder not to "break our hearts." The PA team is pushing for more funds for the Office of Worker Protections, aiming to secure better safety nets and anti-retaliation measures for all Philly workers , whether they're in restaurants, on construction sites, navigating gig work, or providing domestic care.

NEW YORK. New York is currently grappling with a significant home care service shortage, affecting thousands of families and workers throughout the state. To respond to this crisis, the NDWA New York chapter joined forces with the NY Caring Majority and 1199SEIU and launched an effort to address this critical issue. The goal: to influence this year's budget to include The Home Care Savings & Reinvestment Act, aiming to enhance the home care system for everyone involved.

NEW MEXICO. New Mexico is currently experiencing a shortage of home care workers, a situation that has raised concerns among both consumers and employers due to high turnover rates and insufficient data to drive policy improvements. In response, NDWA recently mobilized supporters in the state to highlight the importance of HB94, a proposed bill that aims to significantly improve the pay and working conditions for home care workers. If passed, HB94 would ensure that home care workers receive at least 150% of the minimum wage. This legislation is seen as a vital step towards offering fair compensation for the essential care these workers provide, often under challenging conditions.
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Get Ready for the March Primaries: Your Vote Matters

March is packed with primary elections across 16 states, including Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont and Virginia.

Voting is not just a right; it's one of many powerful tools we have for shaping the policies and practices that affect our daily lives, especially for those in the caring professions and the families they support.

By participating in the primary elections—and encouraging your family and friends to do the same— we can all play a part in building the caring society we envision , a society that values and supports every individual's contributions and well-being.

Visit our voter hub [[link removed]] to ensure you're registered and informed about where and when to vote. Let's make our voices heard!

VISIT VOTER HUB › [[link removed]]
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Get Fair Contracts for Domestic Work

Discover our guide and download sample agreements for nannies, home care workers, and housecleaners [[link removed]] . These templates foster respectful, professional relationships by facilitating open discussions between workers and employers, ensuring domestic workers receive the recognition and respect they deserve.

DOWNLOAD › [[link removed]]
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Honoring the Legacy: Black Domestic Workers in Civil Rights History

This month, we are diving into the rich history of domestic worker organizing, highlighting the pivotal role Black domestic workers have played in the civil rights movement.
Check out these articles to learn more:

👉🏾 Demanding Dignity in the Montgomery Bus Boycott [[link removed]]

👉🏾 Georgia Teresa Gilmore: Unsung Heroine of the Montgomery Bus Boycott [[link removed]]

👉🏾 A Secret Civil Rights Kitchen [[link removed]]

👉🏾 Voter Registration and the Civil Rights Movement [[link removed]]

From the Montgomery Bus Boycott to voter registration drives, these unsung heroes have been at the forefront of demanding dignity and justice. Join us in celebrating their legacy and contributions to the fight for civil rights. Visit our interactive timeline to learn more. [[link removed]]

LEARN MORE › [[link removed]]

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This email was sent by the National Domestic Workers Alliance [[link removed]] , the nation's leading voice for dignity and fairness for the millions of domestic workers in the United States.

45 Broadway, Suite 320 | New York, NY 10006 | DomesticWorkers.org [[link removed]]
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