While AI often grabs headlines, the cause of sluggish wage growth and worker struggles lies elsewhere. For decades, policy decisions have shifted power dramatically in favor of employers, diminishing the leverage of typical workers. Stagnant wages and rising inequality stem from these policy choices, not technological advancements.

Key changes, such as the waning strength of unions, stagnant federal minimum wages, and shifting macroeconomic policies, have eroded workers’ bargaining power. Historical data shows that productivity growth, driven by technological change, has not been associated with higher unemployment or inequality. Instead, these issues arise from an extreme power imbalance between employers and workers.

The Biden Administration has acted to harness the potential risks of AI by directing the Department of Labor to create Principles for Developers and Employers when using AI in the workplace. These principles aim to ensure AI technologies benefit workers, protect their rights, and prevent biases in decision-making processes. They emphasize worker empowerment, ethical AI development, transparency, and responsible use of worker data.

The Department of Labor’s principles emphasize worker empowerment, ethical AI development, human oversight, transparency, protecting labor rights, enabling workers, supporting those impacted by AI, and ensuring responsible use of worker data. These guidelines help businesses harness AI technologies while fostering a fair and equitable work environment.

To support workers, policymakers must strengthen social insurance systems, remove barriers to union organizing, and maintain accessible employment. These actions will empower workers to claim the benefits of technological advancements, including AI, and restore equitable growth in the labor market.

In a study by the Economic Policy Institute, it was found that AI and automation are likely to increase the productivity of workers but may also exacerbate existing inequalities in the labor market. The report highlights how AI technologies, if unregulated, could lead to job displacement, wage suppression, and increased surveillance of workers. It is crucial that the principles set by legislative bodies address these potential issues by ensuring that the benefits of AI are shared broadly among workers, not against.

Join us in advocating for stronger workers’ rights and examine how these principles are implemented by exploring our Systems Change Projects. Let’s work together to shape a future where technological progress uplifts workers and fosters inclusive economic growth.

In Solidarity,

​​​​​​Brianna, Janelle, + Rob

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In addition to celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride and Juneteenth this month, we observe both International Domestic Workers Day and International Sex Workers Day, two crucial dates that highlight the often-overlooked contributions of marginalized workers. These observances highlight the urgent need for labor justice, especially for those who face systemic inequities and are frequently excluded from federal protections.

Domestic workers, many of whom are women of color, are critical to the smooth functioning of our households but often work without the security and benefits they deserve. Despite their vital role, they remain excluded from federal workplace laws, including the Fair Labor Standards Act. This exclusion leaves millions without minimum wage or overtime protections, underscoring a significant gap in our labor system. Organizations like the National Domestic Workers Alliance and our Equity at Work Council members, the Chinese Progressive Association and the California Domestic Workers Coalition, are on the front lines advocating for the rights and protections of these workers. They strive to secure fair wages and safe working conditions, ensuring these essential workers receive the recognition and support they deserve.

Similarly, sex workers face significant challenges, including legal stigma, unsafe working conditions, and a lack of rights and recognition within the workforce. International Sex Workers Day reminds us of their ongoing struggle for dignity and equality. Red Canary Song, a grassroots collective of Asian and migrant sex workers, exemplifies the fight for sex worker rights. Lavender Phoenix, builds transgender, non-binary, and queer API power in San Francisco. Their efforts are crucial in advocating for policy changes and providing necessary support for these marginalized workers. Additionally, resources from organizations such as the Bay Area Workers Support, the ACLU of Southern California’s Know Your Rights for Sex Workers, the Transgender Law Center, and the Sex Workers Project play a pivotal role in this movement, offering guidance and protection for sex workers.

It must be acknowledged that we are amidst a historic uprising of worker power in the United States. Across the nation, workers who have long been marginalized are organizing, joining unions, and striking for fair wages and better working conditions. This movement is particularly led by Black workers, who have historically been sidelined in labor rights but are now driving significant victories and systemic changes.

Philanthropy plays a critical role in this context. By supporting labor justice, we advocate for fair treatment and better conditions while simultaneously addressing racial justice. Black workers, who have been at the forefront of the labor movement, are key to achieving economic equity. Their leadership and resilience pave the way for a more just and inclusive economy. As stated plainly by the Nonprofit Quarterly, philanthropy must support labor justice.

Why Support Matters

Labor justice is racial justice. By centering the needs and experiences of Black workers and other marginalized communities, we create better workplaces and economies for all. Philanthropic support can amplify these efforts, funding initiatives that ensure good jobs, fair pay, and safe conditions.

Historically, philanthropy has not fully engaged with the labor movement. However, supporting worker-led organizations, particularly those led by Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC), can drive transformative change. Examples include successful union drives, community benefits agreements, and partnerships advocating for fair wages and conditions.

Call to Action

As philanthropists, we have a unique opportunity to be on the right side of history. We can help dismantle systemic inequities and build a more equitable economy by funding worker organizing and supporting labor justice initiatives. This June, let’s commit to supporting the workers leading the fight for justice and equality.

To join us and get involved, please visit ReWork the Bay. Together, we can ensure that all workers, regardless of occupation, enjoy the dignity, security, and agency they deserve.

In Solidarity,

​​​​​​Brianna, Janelle, + Rob
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