"My work at McDonald's has always been essential but my needs have never been recognized before or during COVID-19."

ACLU Supporter, these are the words of Gavi Ramirez, one of the thousands of McDonald's front-line workers still showing up every day in this pandemic with no form of paid sick or family leave.

And as massive waves of workers strike for better conditions on International Workers' Day today – May Day – we wanted to be sure you read what Gavi had to say.

No one should have to make the impossible choice of either endangering their life and the lives of others or keeping a job. But for 95% of McDonald's restaurants, there is currently no corporate mandate to provide any form of paid sick or family leave for their employees.

This wasn't acceptable before the COVID-19 outbreak, but now it's unconscionable. Especially when we know women and people of color, who are among the most impacted by a lack of paid leave access – also make up the majority of McDonald's employees.

That's why the ACLU, alongside the Fight for $15 and Service Employees International Union (SEIU), is demanding a change and amplifying the voices of workers like Gavi.

So please take a moment to learn more about this pressing issue and how you can take action with us to hold McDonald's accountable.

In solidarity,

Nicole Regalado
Deputy Director, Liberty Division, National Political Advocacy Department