Immigrant-Led Worker Cooperatives
Worker-owned businesses where immigrant workers build wealth, control their conditions, and can't be exploited by abusive bosses.
Flavor Profile
You tend toward safer approaches while occasionally stepping outside comfort zones
You're fueled by hope, joy, and belief in what's possible
You're comfortable both in front and behind the scenes as needed
You're drawn to deep, sustained commitment that builds over time
Traditional employment leaves immigrant workers vulnerable to wage theft, unsafe conditions, and exploitation. Worker cooperatives offer an alternative where workers own and control their workplaces.
What Are Worker Cooperatives?
Worker cooperatives are businesses owned and democratically controlled by their workers. Profits are shared among worker-owners, and major decisions are made collectively.
Benefits for Immigrant Workers
- No exploitative boss: Workers can’t be threatened with reporting or firing
- Fair wages: Profits go to workers, not outside owners
- Flexible schedules: Workers control their own time
- Skills development: Cooperative members learn business and leadership skills
Successful Models
- Cleaning cooperatives: Worker-owned cleaning businesses in many cities
- Food cooperatives: Restaurant and catering co-ops
- Construction cooperatives: Worker-owned building trades companies
What Baltimore Needs
Support for immigrant-led cooperative development, including:
- Technical assistance for cooperative formation
- Access to capital for worker buyouts
- Procurement preferences for cooperative businesses
Volunteer as a Court Watch Observer
Attend immigration court proceedings to document what happens and provide a supportive presence for those facing deportation.
Help Families Document Their Stories
Assist immigrant families in gathering and organizing documents, photos, and records that may be important for legal cases or family history.
Host a House Meeting
Bring together friends, neighbors, or coworkers to learn about immigrant justice issues and explore ways to get involved as a group.