Respect The Work

  • The “Respect the Work” banners were displayed during a press conference calling for economic justice for domestic workers.
  • The youth color in the draft proposal while having a snack.
  • Selected members of the team present the first drafts and painted proposals for the three banners.
  • In order to paint the banners, the team stapled large pieces of parachute cloth to a wall.
  • Hard at work, this teen uses acrylic paint to add rays of sunshine to the banner.
  • Adding finishing touches to this smiling face.

Project Description

In this project, a group of Groundswell youth partnered with Domestic Workers United (DWU) and Jews for Racial and Economic Justice (JFREJ) to help organize domestic workers in their continued fight for justice, dignity, and respect. The youth artists were commissioned to create three banners which could be used by DWU and JFREJ at upcoming rallies, meetings, and open houses. These colorful banners celebrate the importance of domestic workers and call on all of us to take action in the ongoing campaign for justice for nannies, housekeepers, and elder care providers. The young people unveiled the banners as part of a larger education campaign regarding the Domestic Workers Bill of Rights. At a street fair and press conference hosted in May 2012, hundreds of domestic workers and the children under their care joined our youth muralists in Park Slope to educate the community about this important legislation. During the event, DWU distributed resource guides designed to help local employers comply with the law.

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Project Info

Fun Facts

Suggested Activity
Observe a domestic worker in your community. Create a sketch that celebrates the hard work and care you witness. Share this and thank an unsung hero for his or her dedication.
Fun Fact
According to DWU, more than 60% of employers in Park Slope are in violation of the Domestic Workers Bill of Rights passed in 2010.
Research
The first legislation of its kind, the Domestic Workers Bill of Rights provides overtime pay, protection from discrimination, and other basic benefits for the more than 200,000 nannies, housekeepers, and companions for the elderly in New York State.