Rally to Support the New York City Paid Sick Leave Act
Sunday, October 16th, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Kevin E. Conroy Ballfield at Greenwood Playground,
Fort Hamilton Parkway at E. 5th Street
Cari Jackson writes
A group of parents in Kensington, Brooklyn, along with the support of A Better Balance and the New York State Paid Sick Leave Coalition, are holding a rally at Greenwood Ballfield (Fort Hamilton and East 5th) on October 16, 11:30 to 1:30. We'll have arts & crafts and facepainting for the kids, and a live band [Slavic Soul Party] will perform. But the main event is the speak-out.
We would like to invite ANYONE in the NYC area who has dealt with a lack of paid sick time to come and share your story. If you had to go to work when you were sick, faced punishment for taking a day to care for your child, or if you sent your child to school sick because you couldn't afford to take the day off—if any of these things have happened to you, please come share your story. This is a chance to make your voice heard and better your life and the lives of others.
1.3 million New Yorkers lack a single day of paid sick leave. The New York City Paid Sick Leave Act will give everyone 5 to 9 accrued paid sick days (depending on the size of the company), and parents will be able to use the days to care for a sick child. It has the support of 80% of New Yorkers, and it had a veto-proof majority of votes on City Council. However, the vote was blocked. We need to send a message that the bill needs to come to a vote, now.
If you've had to struggle due to a lack of sick days, you're not alone, and we'd love to hear from you. If you're scared of public speaking, we can help you prepare. The power of your voice can help push this extremely important legislation through.
Please email me and I can tell you more. Also, if anyone would like to volunteer at the event, please get in touch. cjackson80 [at] gmail.com.
All the best, and many thanks,Cari Jacksoncjackson80 [at] gmail.com