The summer of 2023 has been a pivotal moment for the labor movement, with workers across various industries threatening or engaging in work stoppages at rates not seen since the 1980s. This surge in labor activism has been met with overwhelming support from the majority of Americans, signaling a shift in public sentiment towards unions. Amidst these high-profile labor negotiations, a significant victory for workers in the entertainment industry has gone somewhat unnoticed but is poised to have a far-reaching impact on the labor market.
In June, the National Labor Relations Review Board (NLRB) issued a ruling in favor of makeup artists, hair stylists, and wig artists who provide services for the Atlanta Opera. This ruling marked a significant change in the classification of workers as independent contractors versus employees, making it easier for millions of American workers to organize, unionize, and protect their shared interests. This ruling is not only a win for workers in the entertainment industry but also a hopeful outcome for Catholics who have long supported organized labor.
The gig economy has become a central battleground for workers’ rights, as more and more people rely on freelance and independent work to make ends meet. The rise of gig work, facilitated by tech companies and their platforms, has led to increased income inequality and a lack of regulatory protections for workers. The control exerted by these companies over workers, through algorithms and digital management systems, blurs the line between independent contractors and employees, leaving many workers vulnerable to exploitation.
The growth of the gig economy has highlighted the need for increased protections for working-class people, as they struggle to navigate a system that prioritizes profit over their well-being. The church, drawing on its long history of supporting organized labor, sees the NLRB decision as a step towards fostering solidarity among workers and promoting the common good. Pope John Paul II’s encyclical on labor emphasizes the importance of solidarity in the face of social degradation and exploitation, calling on workers and the church to organize and fight for justice.
The fight for workers’ rights in the gig economy is a crucial battle that requires collective action and support for unions. By making it easier for all workers to unionize, regardless of their classification, we can work towards a more just and equitable society. The NLRB decision serves as a reminder of the importance of solidarity among workers and the need to prioritize the well-being of all individuals in the workforce. As we continue to navigate the changing landscape of work, it is essential to uphold the values of justice, solidarity, and the common good in our pursuit of a more equitable future.
