The Los Angeles County Office of Labor Equity, within the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA), joined together with the Pilipino Workers’ Center (PWC) to recognize Labor Rights Week and raise awareness of the various resources available to workers, employers, and communities.
The event highlighted the $15.96 minimum wage for unincorporated areas in the County of Los Angeles, urged workers and income earners to check their hourly paycheck stub and confirm that it is at least $15.96, and to let the community know that minimum wage laws and other worker protections apply regardless of perceived immigration status, culture, or language.
The new Office of Labor Equity centralizes the County’s workplace and worker safety, protection, and empowerment efforts.
“We take pride in having workplace safety and worker protections as part of our charge,” said DCBA’s Director Rafael Carbajal. “We appreciate every worker, employer, and partner that is making sure that Los Angeles County remains a vibrant place for all to thrive.”
“The Pilipino Workers Center has stood by, fought for, and defended the rights of Filipino workers and these efforts have resulted in outcomes that benefit the general community,” said Aquilina Soriano Versoza, the Center’s Executive Director. “We encourage every worker, and worker protection ally to be aware of the applicable wage and work safety laws that apply to prevent financial loss and tragedy.”
“The Office of Labor Equity was established to create a one-stop shop for workplace safety and worker protection concerns as we emerge from the pandemic,” said Rose Basmadzhyan, Chief of the LA County Office of Labor Equity. “Our team will continue to ensure fair, equitable, and dignified earning opportunities through education, compliance, and enforcement.”
Labor Rights Week, from Aug. 30 to Sept. 3 this year, raises awareness about worker protections for low-wage and vulnerable workers through multiple events across the country in partnership with agencies, local advocacy organizations, and U.S. consulates.
For more information regarding the LA County’s workplace safety and worker protections and how to report potential violations, visit dcba.lacounty.gov.
The Pilipino Workers Center of Southern California is a nonprofit serving and organizing the low-wage Pilipino immigrant community in Los Angeles. More information can be found at pwcsc.org.
