December 10 is Human Rights Day, a global recognition of every person’s right to dignity, safety, and fair treatment. This year’s theme highlights the importance of equal opportunity and the right for everyone, no matter their background, to participate fully in society.
For hourly workers, these rights show up in everyday ways: getting a fair paycheck, having access to breaks, receiving schedules on time, being safe on the job, and being treated with respect by customers and supervisors. These aren’t optional benefits, they’re basic rights that support your well-being and ability to work.
Human Rights Day is a good moment to pause and make sure you understand what protections exist for you. Whether you're stocking shelves, working in food service, running a register, or taking on seasonal shifts, you deserve a workplace where your safety and dignity come first.
What You Can Do Today
- Know your rights. Wage laws, safety regulations, and break requirements exist to protect hourly workers.
- Speak up when something doesn’t feel right. You have the right to raise concerns without retaliation.
- Look out for coworkers. Fairness is easier when we support each other.
Human Rights Day is a reminder that every worker deserves fairness and respect, and that knowing your rights is part of protecting them.
Helpful Resources for Hourly Workers
- U.S. Department of Labor Wage & Hour Info: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd
- OSHA Workplace Safety: https://www.osha.gov/workers
- EEOC Employment Rights: https://www.eeoc.gov/