Solidarity Center: Global Labor Policy Consultant

Informal workers are a major part of the global workforce . They earn income outside formal employment systems and operate within the informal economy. This type of work is often unseen, yet it supports daily life in cities, towns, and rural areas. From food stalls to home services, informal workers keep essential activities moving. The informal economy includes jobs that are not officially recorded or regulated by the state. These workers usually do not receive written contracts, social security, or labor benefits. Even so, they contribute time, skills, and effort that help families survive and communities function. This article explores how informal workers live, why informal work continues to grow, and what can be done to improve conditions without harming livelihoods. Defining Informal Work in Simple Terms Informal work refers to jobs that operate outside formal labor laws. This does not mean the work is illegal. It means the job is not registered or protected by official systems...

Connected to the Ground: Why Workers Who Reflect Their Communities and Sectors Matter

February 02, 2026

Workers who are representative of their communities or sectors bring authenticity and clarity to their work. Their perspectives are shaped by real involvement, whether through cultural ties, geographic roots, or direct industry experience. This connection allows organizations to move beyond abstract planning and operate with a deeper understanding of the people and systems they impact. In an era where trust, relevance, and accountability are increasingly important, representation has become a practical necessity. Organizations that include workers who genuinely reflect their communities or professional sectors are better positioned to make informed decisions, build meaningful relationships, and achieve long-term success. Representation as a Foundation of Relevance Representation ensures that organizations remain relevant to the communities or sectors they serve. Workers who share backgrounds or experiences with these groups understand priorities, challenges, and expectations in ways o...

Strength in Difference: How a Diverse Workforce Builds Stronger Organizations

January 22, 2026

Workers today come from a wide range of backgrounds and communities, reflecting broader changes in society, education, migration, and economic opportunity . Organizations across the United States are no longer made up of people with similar life experiences, cultural references, or career paths. Instead, modern workplaces bring together individuals of different races, ethnicities, genders, ages, abilities, socioeconomic histories, and belief systems. This diversity is not incidental; it is a defining feature of how work now happens. As companies adapt to global markets and increasingly diverse customer bases, their workforce naturally evolves. Employees who grew up in urban neighborhoods work alongside those from rural communities. First-generation college graduates collaborate with peers whose families have long histories in professional careers. These differences influence how people approach problems, communicate ideas, and understand success. When managed thoughtfully, this variety...

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