Background
On August 12, 2020, dozens of home attendants—most of whom were current or former members of 1199SEIU—held a press conference in front of 1199SEIU’s office to demand that the union stop its collusion with home care agencies and insurance companies to maintain the racist, sexist, and unjust 24-hour workday. They were joined by other workers and supporters of the
Ain't I a Woman?!
Campaign and, right now, they can use our help.
Details
For years, workers have asked 1199SEIU president to stand with them against the abusive practice of a 24-hour workday, especially as they are paid for only 13 of those hours.
In the face of mounting pressure, the union president finally released a statement at the press conference last week: “We wholeheartedly believe that all workers deserve to be fairly compensated for the hours they work. We also understand that in order for 24-hour workers to be compensated as they should, the State of New York must allocate roughly one billion dollars in Medicaid funding.” To summarize: There's nothing wrong with 24-hour shifts. Workers should be paid, but there’s no money. Our hands are tied.
Many people are now asking, "Why is the union turning its back on its members? Is it because they are women of color and immigrants? Is it because these women are caring for vulnerable, low-income, elderly, ill and disabled individuals who need around-the-clock care?"
Call to Action
Home care workers are rising up and rallying to end the 24-hour workday. Those who care about for the wellbeing of workers, whether you are in New York, other parts of the US or around the world, don’t let this shameful and destructive pace setting from the 1199SEIU leadership hurt all of us. Write or call 1199SEIU President George Gresham, and tell him to end the 24-hour work shifts and replace it with split shifts.
Contact George Gresham, 1199 SEIU President:
