Labor and Employment Rights
AACRE advocates for policies that advance the rights of all workers to earn a living wage, work in a safe environment, organize collectively for improved conditions, be free from discrimination , and have equal access to critical work support programs.
AACRE and its partners focus on the needs of Asian and Pacific Islander American workers in low-wage or hazardous industries such as garment manufacturing, construction and trades, hospitality, and food services. Unfortunately, limited-English proficient workers and APIAs are over-represented in these low-wage sectors. For example, although APIA immigrants comprise approximately 10% of the labor force, they represent 15% of manufacturing workers. In San Francisco, 53% of all textile and apparel workers are APIA women. Workers in these low-wage industries not only struggle to earn a sustainable income, but are also more likely to suffer injuries and illnesses at work. Once injured, many LEP workers face barriers to accessing the health care and benefits they need.
In addition to supporting legislation, AACRE offers technical assistance to policymakers on developing policies that address the needs of low-wage Asian and Pacific Americans and limited English proficient workers such as, protecting worker health and safety and ensuring equal access to work support programs.
Beyond advocacy on behalf of low-wage Asian and Pacific Islander American workers, AACRE collaborates with other civil rights advocates to advance policies that address ongoing workplace discrimination faced by Asian and Pacific Americans and other disenfranchised communities based on race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, religion or sexual orientation.
See AACRE Agenda for positions AACRE is taking on important legislation.