A Worker-led Non-Profit Dedicated to Fighting
Wage Theft and Workplace Injustice
Get Help
What is Wage Theft?
Wage theft—when employers deny workers their rightful pay—costs U.S. workers an estimated $15 to $50 billion every year1Economic Policy Institute (2017). Employers steal billions from workers’ paychecks each year, disproportionately impacting low-wage and immigrant workers2Economic Policy Institute (2020). Wage Theft and the Impact on Low-Wage Workers.
Wage Theft 101How It Affects Us All
When billions are withheld from workers, families are forced into poverty, relying on public assistance3Center for Public Integrity (2021). Wage theft hits immigrants — hard and facing increased stress and violence4National Institute of Justice (2016). Economic Distress and Intimate Partner Violence weakening our local economy and community well-being.
Social ImpactWorkers' Dignity's Impact
Workers' Dignity / Dignidad Obrera uses a proven, ethical, and restorative-justice approach to fight wage theft. Our work has empowered thousands of workers across Davidson County to reclaim millions in stolen wages—restoring dignity and fairness to our workplaces and strengthening our communities6GivingMatters.com. Mission & Impact: Workers' Dignity/Dignidad Obrera.
Our OutcomesOur Proven Process to Recover Wages
We have successfully helped recover millions of dollars of wages for workers using this process, and it has helped create working-class solidarity, a more dynamic economy, and accountability for employers that benefits all Nashvillians.
Step 1
Inquiry
We start with understanding. Our team reaches out on behalf of the worker(s), often discovering that a simple conversation can bridge language barriers or clarify misunderstandings.
With clear communication, many cases are resolved quickly and fairly.
Step 2
Diplomacy
If needed, we take it a step further. A delegation of workers and trained staff formally requests reconciliation and recovery of outstanding wages.
Our team, skilled in negotiation and collaborative communication, works to secure a respectful, amicable solution.
Step 3
Activism
As a last resort, we activate public support. We organize impactful actions to raise awareness of the employer’s non-compliance, urging them to recognize and respect the dignity of their laborers.
Our goal is not just to recover wages, but to foster accountability and respect in our community.
Solidarity in Action
Celebrating 14 Years of Victories
|
|
Victory Stories
Mario got his full wages from his discriminatory restaurant owners.
Fidel’s team of painters recovered the $17,648 they were owed.
Claudia recovered her full wages for her housekeeping labor.