LCLAA Observes Workers’ Memorial Day

Washington, DC -  On Workers' Memorial Day, the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement stands in solidarity with workers worldwide to honor those who have been injured, disabled, or have lost their lives on the job. While progress has been made through policies like the eight-hour workday and paid sick leave, there is still more to be done to ensure safe and healthy working conditions for all.

Many of these victories were hard-won by members of our movement who were steadfast in their mission. However, the fact remains that Latino and immigrant workers still face alarming rates of workplace injuries and fatalities, and are more likely to be exposed to safety and health hazards. This last year, Latino workers saw the highest fatality rate in fifteen years. 

Through improving anti-retaliation protections and increasing protections for migrant workers, domestic workers, and farm workers, we can improve worker safety and create equitable workplaces. 

Yanira Merino, National President of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement on Workers’ Memorial Day, “The safety that we enjoy at work was not given to us but fought for by working people. It is our responsibility to continue that fight and stand in solidarity with those who risk their lives every day in dangerous working conditions. If our nation seeks to protect its workforce, it must stand by their promise and pass legislation that makes it safer for workers to raise concerns in the workplace. Our nation and our workers need our policymakers to stand in solidarity, and pass the PRO Act.”