How do I start defending my rights as a worker with AIAWJ?
Step 1:
All workers interested in working in partnership with the Worker Rights Center must first attend a workplace/civil rights training. The trainings are held on the second and fourth Monday of the month at 6:00 p.m. at the AIAWJ office: 331 East Willetta, Phoenix. Always phone ahead at (602)254-5452 to verify that the scheduled training will be offered.
Step 2:
Be prepared for your appointment! Gather the following evidence:
-Complete name and personal contact information of your employer/ contractor
-Business name, address, phone number
-A record of hours worked, timecards, paystubs
-A copy of any contracts/ agreements signed
-Any other relevant documentation that support your claims
Step 3:
If you have an individual case related to discrimination, health and safety or wage theft (none of your co-workers are interested in participating in the complaint process), please join us for a Saturday clinic during which a volunteer will assist you in identifying the violations in the workplace and filing with a government agency (EEOC, DOL, ROC, OSHA) or court to address your complaint.
If you and your coworkers are owed wages and two or more are willing to collaborate in this effort, a staff member will meet with you to document the violations and discuss alternative methods of recourse (negotiations, protests, delegations, vigils, filing with government agencies or courts).
Step 4:
It is your responsibility to provide all the information required and follow-up with worker center staff on the progress of your case. Keep us informed of any phone number or address changes, so that we can stay in contact.