Workers and COVID-19

COVID-19 has further exposed the major gaps in workplace protections and benefits for big tech’s contractors and employees. Amid the pandemic, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos’ wealth has grown by $24 billion, while frontline Amazon workers who have protested for protective equipment, hazard pay, and expanded sick leave have been fired in retaliation. Although the relief bill that was recently signed will provide short-term support for some workers at Uber, Lyft, Postmates, Instacart, and Amazon, many of these workers are not entitled to workers’ compensation, health care benefits, or sick pay.

This webinar will explore the demand for workers protections during COVID-19, as well as the advocacy strategies that are being used – from walk-outs to the demand for the creation of employer generation hardship funds – as well as the long-term goal of permanent protections for workers. 

Speakers:

• Michelle Miller, Coworker

• Dania Rajendra, Athena Coalition

• Derecka Mehrens, Gig Workers Rising

• Abdi Muse, Awood

Moderator:

• amalia deloney, Media Democracy Fund