An initiative focused on increased fairness for those who work in technology could have wide-ranging implications for AV integrators and manufacturers, especially those who aren’t meeting the standards set forth in the Tech Workers’ Bill of Rights.
The Tech Workers’ Bill of Rights are “a set of principles to create an equitable future by raising the standards for all workers across the industry—whether full-time office workers who deserve a say in the products they build, warehouse workers facing unsafe conditions or gig workers seeking security in tech’s competitive landscape,” according to the Tech Workers Coalition.
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Here’s a closer look at the principles that the Tech Workers’ Bill of Rights is looking to protect and expand with its adoption:
Equity: Workers deserve fair and inclusive work environments free of discrimination.
Empowerment: Workers should have input in decision making around their working conditions.
Representation: Workers should have a meaningful say in business decisions, including company strategy and ethical standards.
Accountability: Workers deserve equality and transparency when it comes to hirings, firings, and HR practices.
Safety: Workers have the right to safe working conditions.
Fairness: Workers deserve equal pay for equal work.
Freedom: Workers should be free to express themselves, dissent, and organize without fear of repercussion or retaliation.
The Tech Workers’ Bill of Rights “outlines protections all tech workers deserve,” according to the Tech Workers’ Coalition.
It covers a variety of issues specific to tech, including inclusive workplaces free from discrimination, freedom to speak one’s mind without retribution and protection from company surveillance.
“The last few years of organizing in tech have taught us many important lessons,” according to the coalition statement. “Tech workers need protections at work, whether it’s to prevent retaliation toward activists or pay and benefits equity in the workplace.
“The issues tech workers care about are vast, and tech workers are ready to make their voices heard and raise standards across the industry,” the statement says.
Here’s hoping all AV integrators and manufacturers we cover on CI have already adopted these principles at their companies.
If not, here’s just the kind of reminder you need to make sure these policies are as much a part of your day-to-day operations as winning new work and creating new products.
