We Believe In

Employers Violate Workers’ Rights and Get Away With It
Employers steal an estimated $15 billion every year from workers and their families by failing to pay a minimum wage. This particularly impacts Black and Latinx workers.
47% of workers whose rights were violated never reported them.
98% of workers’ claims for rights violations disappear when the only option is private, forced arbitration without access to courts.
We envision a future in which all workers are treated with dignity and respect.
Our Approach
Research How the Law is and is Not Enforced
Empower Workers with Information About Their Rights
Educate State and Local Policymakers About How to Strengthen Enforcement
Drive Campaigns to Encourage Companies to Respect Workers’ Rights
Change the Narrative Around How and Why Individuals Get Justice

Dismantling Barriers to Justice
NIWR is proud to share our 2025 Impact Report—a testament to resilience in a time of challenge. Workers’ rights, the rule of law, and the future of our democracy remain under attack, yet this report shows how, together, we are pushing back and making progress.
The report underscores both the dangers workers continue to face—from forced arbitration to discrimination—and the strength that emerges through collaboration and determination. On behalf of NIWR’s Board and staff, we extend our deepest gratitude to our donors and other supporters, NELA, its Affiliates, and all our partners for standing with us in this fight for working people.

Support Our Work
invest in the future of workers’ rights advocacy. Support the Institute today.



