fb-pixelRecent case highlights need for domestic workers’ bill of rights - The Boston Globe Skip to main content
letters

Recent case highlights need for domestic workers’ bill of rights

On Jan. 9 the Globe reported that a couple from Harvard pleaded guilty in the trafficking of a 16-year-old domestic worker into the United States from Bolivia (“Couple admit to underpaying immigrant for 13 years,” Metro). They paid her $3,000 for 13 years of work taking care of the children, cleaning, and even shoveling snow.

This case is just one instance of abuse that domestic workers commonly face. It illustrates why the Commonwealth should support the pending Domestic Workers’ Bill of Rights in Massachusetts.

Under the bill, Martha and Richard Smalanskas would have had to provide the young woman with a list of her workplace rights at the beginning of the job and would have had to sign a contract detailing her pay rate and responsibilities.

In November domestic workers and employers asked the Legislature’s joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development to value the work that makes all other work possible by backing the bill. As the bill awaits a vote, now is the time for people from all walks of life to speak up in support of domestic workers. Let’s say no to modern-day slavery in our state, and pass this measure.

Advertisement



Lydia Edwards
Allston

The writer is director of legal services and head of the Domestic Worker Law and Policy Clinic at the Brazilian Immigrant Center.