In 2011 on this date [16th June], saw the passage of Convention 189 (C-189) for Decent Work For Domestic Workers in establishing labour law by the International Labour Organization (ILO). Hence, International Domestic Workers Day comes in honour of the ongoing fight by leadership across the world geared towards bettering the conditions of said workers who are employed in the homes of others cooking, cleaning and also caretaking of babies, elderly and the differently abled.
Today therefore is an important anniversary in saluting these groups of workers who play a key role in the Care Economy, and to spotlight ongoing efforts across the globe in seeing to the well-being of these vulnerable workers through protection at the labour laws level in various countries by ratifying C-189. In a lot of cases domestic workers are like part of the extended family in a household as many of them have worked for certain employers over the years in developing a level of trust and comfort which complements the smooth flow of homely activities.
The St. Kitts-Nevis Trades and Labour Union hereby extends gratitude to all of the hardworking and committed domestic workers, and to remind you that the work you provide is DECENT WORK whether you are a home care worker, house cleaner or nanny.
You are
professionals who go about your work just like any other worker. Apart from congratulating you the domestic workers, our Union also wishes to assure you that we are committed and hard at work in seeing to your well-being when it comes to the labour laws.
Our office is quite aware of the many challenges that you face due to the fact that is easy for an employer to treat you unfairly, especially when it comes to your wages and work schedule. If you have any concerns, come and speak with us.
It is our mission to include you as we seek to ensure that your betterment is put in place based on what you say to us and have a discussion altogether with those in authority namely government officials, your employers and other stakeholder partners such as the Caribbean Domestic Workers Network (CDWN) which is affiliated with the International Domestic Workers Federation (IDWF). At our Union conference in October 2023, we passed a resolution to have a domestic workers section.
Therefore, let us build and grow together for your betterment. Hold your heads up high and continue to the stars in the Care Economy. You deserve care too in your line of work, and this is a priority of the St. Kitts-Nevis Trades and Labour Union in doing its part to bring about positive change to impact your DECENT WORK.
We stand in solidarity with you! Join the Union! Together we have a strong voice.
