NY DIRECT Coalition, which includes SEIU 32BJ, The Legal Aid Society, Make the Road New York, New York Taxi Workers Alliance, New York Nail Salon Workers Association, the National Writers Union, and A Better Balance, among others, hosted a workers’ roundtable at Legal Aid’s Manhattan offices this week.

Directly impacted workers shared their first-hand experiences as misclassified independent contractors and explained how meaningful legislation would positively impact their working conditions and lives.

Moderated by labor reporter Kim Kelly, the event highlighted the voices of workers who make New York City run. A nail salon worker, an app driver, a delivery worker, a domestic worker and other low-wage “independent contractors” all shared what it’s like being denied employee rights on the job and expressed the critical need for meaningful legislation to address the widespread issue.

As legislators debate which workers should have employee rights and protections, this roundtable provided the opportunity to hear directly from impacted workers themselves.

Learn more about how The Legal Aid Society is giving a voice to workers in need.