Dear John,

Back when I was a caregiver, I was in a nanny circle with a few others. We often texted back and forth, sharing caregiving tips and navigating family dynamics together. We didn’t have paid sick time, and if one of us got sick, the others would be asked if they could fill in.

Sometimes, we went to work sick. Missing a day of work might mean we couldn’t make rent or share our earnings with our families. This was just what we had to do – and it was the norm, across all industries. People might have a cold or a cough, but they went to work anyway, because they simply didn’t have a choice.

Now, especially that we’re in a global pandemic, I see how awful the entire situation was.

I didn’t know about Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) back then, but I know now that’s what the other nannies and I deserved. To be able to stay home and rest, care for our family members, or take time to go to necessary medical appointments without fear or worry. This is something all workers deserve.

At TakeAction Minnesota, we believe every person has inherent worth and dignity. We all deserve care and the tools we need to meet our highest family responsibilities. No one should have to choose between caring for themselves or a loved one and earning a paycheck. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us that we are all connected – and that paid sick time is a public health issue.

When workers have access to paid sick time, they don’t spread illness at work, and our families and communities are safer and healthier. It’s that simple.

That’s why we’re fighting for statewide #PaidSickDays this legislative session. Take action with us by emailing your legislators today. Ask them to support the Earned Sick and Safe Time bill (HF7). Customize your message for the greatest impact.

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Twelve states and D.C. have passed statewide sick time laws. In Minnesota, we’ve won local sick time ordinances in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Duluth. Together, we can win paid sick time across the state, so families and communities across Minnesota can stay healthy and thrive.

In unbreakable solidarity,

- LyLy

PS: Itching for more action? 👀 Look out for our Caring Week of Action the week of the 14th. We’ll have different actions for you to plug into each day to help build a more just and caring state.

TakeAction Minnesota
705 Raymond Ave. #100
St. Paul, MN 55114

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