by James Parks, May 6, 2011
Young Workers United (YWU) members issued their second annual edition of “Dining With Justice,” which highlights food establishments that follow labor laws and treat their employees with dignity and respect.
The San Francisco-based group released the updated guide on May Day, as members participate in May Day marches in support of workers’ rights.
Because of the recession, restaurant owners and managers have a greater incentive to increase profits by cutting corners with food quality, health and safety and labor rights, YWU says.
As a result, most restaurant workers have been victims of wage theft. They may not receive overtime pay or breaks, or are forced to work off the clock. Workers have been increasingly apprehensive of speaking out about work grievances, fearing job loss and prolonged unemployment.
YWU presented awards to restaurant owners who care not only about the food they serve but also the people they employ. To determine the winners, YWU surveyed workers and employers in 35 restaurants in a variety of price ranges throughout San Francisco.
Check out the “Dining With Justice” guide here.
