Hispanic Heritage Month: Protecting Our Latino Workers
Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15th to October 15th and honors the immense contributions of the Latino community to the cultural, social and economic fabric of the United States. Latinos represent a significant portion of the US workforce and are yet disproportionately impacted by injuries and illnesses on the job. This month we not only celebrate Latino heritage but also shine a light on the importance of needing better worker protections for Latino workers in the US.
Latino Workers and High-Risk Industries
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, latino workers account for 19% of the U.S. labor force for a total of 31.8 million workers as of 2023. This number has grown 69% since 2003 making them the fastest growing worker group in the United States. While they only account for 19 percent of the U.S. labor force, they are overrepresented in labor-intensive industries which unfortunately puts them at a higher risk of workplace injuries and fatalities compared to other demographic groups.
As of 2021, Hispanic or Latino workers had a fatality rate of 4.5 per 100,000 full-time equivalent workers. Meaning a Latino worker is 30% more likely to suffer a fatal injury on the job compared to other races. The nature of working in high-risk industries is an increase in the likelihood of accidents, and Latino workers frequently find themselves in positions where safety protocols are either inadequate or not fully communicated. Despite their critical role in these industries, many Latino workers face significant barriers when it comes to reporting injuries or accessing workers’ compensation benefits.
Latino Workers Rights and Legal Protections
Latino workers face a variety of obstacles when trying to claim the workers’ compensation benefits they are entitled to under the law. One of the most common barriers is the language gap for those who have limited English proficiency, making it difficult for them to fully understand their rights or the workers’ compensation process.
In addition to language barriers, concerns over immigration status can also prevent many Latino workers from reporting injuries, filing workers’ compensation claims or seeking legal advice. However, in the State of Georgia, the law entitles any qualified worker to receive workers’ compensation benefits regardless of their immigration status. These benefits typically cover medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation services, providing crucial support during a worker’s recovery.
Sadly it is not uncommon for undocumented immigrants to face employer intimidation practices, such as threatening to withhold pay or termination, to prevent them from filing claims. It’s important to note that anti-retaliation laws are in place to protect workers, regardless of immigration status, who report injuries or file workers’ compensation claims. Employers are legally prohibited from retaliating against employees for exercising their rights. Workers, especially those who are undocumented, must know they are protected by the law and should not fear speaking up if they have been injured on the job.
Protecting Our Latino Workers
Legal representation is often necessary to ensure that injured workers receive the full benefits they deserve. Employers and insurance companies may attempt to deny or reduce compensation, especially in cases involving undocumented workers. That is why it’s important to have a skilled workers’ compensation firm, like Poirier Law Firm, to advocate on behalf of Latino workers to ensure you are getting the compensation and representation you deserve.
Latino workers have played a vital role in the growth and development of the United States, and deserve to work in environments that prioritize and protect their safety and wellbeing. If you are a Latino worker or know a Latino worker who has been injured on the job, it is crucial to seek legal guidance. No one should have to navigate the workers’ compensation system alone, and no one should fear retaliation for standing up for their rights. Poirier Law Firm is here to help, providing support and the advocacy needed to ensure that every worker receives the benefits they deserve!