On Monday, April 26, approximately 150 state advocates gathered in Washington, DC, for the Paid Sick Days Summit. Hosted by the National Partnership for Women and Families and Families Values @ Work, NCJW allies from across the country came to DC to advocate for family-friendly workplace policies like the Healthy Families Act (HR 2460/S 1152) — just like NCJW did in March at Washington Institute.

I was lucky enough to receive an invitation to speak to this group on behalf of NCJW. And, with so many passionate advocates in the room, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to introduce Higher Ground: NCJW’s Domestic Violence Campaign.

Like us at NCJW, these advocates know that the Healthy Families Act is both a critical support for working families and an essential safeguard for victims of domestic violence whose safety often depends on their level of financial security. If enacted, the Healthy Families Act would guarantee that all workers earn a minimum number of paid sick days so that they don’t have to choose between going to work and caring for themselves or a sick family member. Importantly, the bill allows victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking to use paid sick days to seek assistance.

The advocates I met and spoke with are leaders in state and local paid sick day campaigns. They were thrilled to hear that this issue is a key part of Higher Ground and excited to learn more about how victims of domestic violence can benefit from this and other family-friendly workplace policies. As I was leaving, many of the attendees asked me how they could work with NCJW members and supporters in their own communities to promote our shared goals.

Please contact higherground@ncjwdc.org if you are interested in learning more about linking up with Paid Sick Day campaigns in your area.

Act now to amplify the voices from the Paid Sick Days Summit. Support the Healthy Families Act today!