May 10, 2021
Legal Advocacy Organization Taking The Fight For Workers’ Rights Online
A Better Balance (ABB), a national organization dedicated to advancing justice for workers caring for themselves and their loved ones, will hold a free online event Tuesday, May 11, to celebrate its 15th anniversary.
According to a press release, celebrating progress and the road ahead in tackling today’s unprecedented care crisis will be the theme. Honorees include Chai Feldblum, former Commissioner of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and long-time civil rights leader. Among the speakers scheduled to appear ar Samantha Bee, host of Full Frontal With Samantha Bee on TBS; Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY); Colorado State Senator Faith Winter (D-Westminster); and Charlotte Burrows, chair of the Equal Opportunity Employment Commission.
In an interview with BLACK ENTERPRISE, Sherry Leiwant, co-founder and co-president of ABB, said anyone who is interested in issues related to ABB’s work may want to attend. Many issues ABB addresses pertain to women.
“We’re really in the midst…of trying to get paid family and medical leave passed in Congress, as well as the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, which is up for a vote next week in the House,” Leiwant said.
She noted that during the event, attendees will learn about what people can do to raise these issues and others impacting all at the state, local and federal levels.
ABB’s website mentions that some of the organization’s work includes researching, drafting, and testifying in support of bills that will help working people care for themselves and their loved ones without risking their paychecks. ABB has also been supportive of low-wage workers and workers of color.
Dina Bakst, ABB’s co-founder and co-president, penned an op-ed in The Hill with Leiwant on President Biden’s commitments to invest in working families and their importance.
ABB is currently urging individuals to tell legislators that pregnant workers and mothers should not have to choose between feeding their families and their health. According to the organization’s blog, ‘Congress must immediately pass the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act to help ensure dignity, security, and equity for pregnant workers.’
ABB also serves a resource to learn more about workplace rights. Anyone who is interested in attending the May 11 online event may register directly on ABB’s website.