The proposed motion is the second part of the Workers’ Bill of Rights policy package
Sept. 17, 2025, NEW ORLEANS—On Thursday, Sept. 18, Step Up Louisiana will bring members, workers, and community advocates to attend the Quality of Life committee hearing, where councilpeople will vote on a motion to create a Healthy Workplace Program—the second part of the Workers’ Bill of Rights policy package.
Event Details:
WHAT: Step Up Louisiana Press Conference + City Council Committee Hearing
WHEN: Thursday, September 18 | Press conference at 12:30 p.m. | Hearing at 1 p.m.
WHERE: City Hall, 1300 Perdido Street, New Orleans, La.
WHO: Step Up members and community advocates
Step Up Louisiana’s campaign for the Healthy Workplace Program comes after the success of the Workers’ Bill of Rights campaign, in which 80% of Orleans Parish voters voted to amend the Home Rule Charter to affirm the City’s commitment to workers’ rights.
In partnership with the New Orleans Health Department, if passed, the program would recognize local employers that support their employees’ well-being and act as a tool for the public to evaluate employers that support their employees’ well-being. The program would also educate employers and incentivise them to be Workers’ Bill of Rights employers. Recognition confirms that the employer pays a living wage, ensures access to healthcare, has paid leave and provides workers the freedom to organize a union free from intimidation.
New Orleans’ lack of workers’ rights is a public health crisis. Many poor and Black New Orleans workers lack access to health insurance, paid sick leave, living wages, and safe and healthy workplaces. Workplace hazards and lack of time and resources to access healthcare contribute to the 20+ gap in life expectancy between residents of the richest, white neighborhoods and residents of the poorest, Black neighborhoods in New Orleans. This campaign is a major step in the right direction toward a healthy, equitable workforce.
About Step Up Louisiana
Step Up Louisiana is a community-based organization committed to building power to win education and economic justice for all. Step Up works with Louisianans of all races and ages to “step up” by campaigning, organizing from a racial justice perspective, and holding public officials accountable. The organization partners with parents, workers, students, and community members to disrupt systemic oppression in our schools and workplaces through voter education, advocacy, and action.
