City of Atlanta launches program for labor rights education, awards $20k in grants

July 19th, 2024

atlanta city hall — The City of Atlanta and the Atlanta Department of Labor and Employment Services launched a new micro-grant initiative to spread awareness of fair labor practices. (Jasmine Robinson/WABE)

The City of Atlanta launched a micro-grant program Friday to help inform local businesses and workers of their labor rights and obligations.

The Labor Rights Education Program (LREP) awarded $20,000 to two Atlanta-based advocacy organizations: Georgia Strategic Alliance for New Directions and Unified Policies (STAND-UP), a think tank aiming to promote worker rights and economic justice, and Partnership for Southern Equity, a nonprofit organization that supports policies for racial, environmental, and economic equity.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said in a press release that the program “reflects the City’s commitment to creating a fair, safe, and inclusive working environment for everyone.”

“This initiative will allow our community to be educated and ensure all business owners and employees understand their rights and are empowered to exercise those rights,” Dickens added.

Organizations receiving grants will pursue informational campaigns on worker rights and fair labor practices by hosting workshops and distributing resources. Projects will last from July to December this year.