We organize low-wage Filipino workers to combat labor trafficking, promote human and worker’s rights, and develop social justice leaders.

 
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Building Worker Power

View Damayan’s history through our interactive timeline

WHAT WE DO

Damayan is a grassroots organization that serves and empowers low-wage Filipino migrant workers living and working in New York City and New Jersey, especially domestic workers and labor trafficking survivors or modern day slaves.

We were established in 2002 by a group of Filipina domestic workers experiencing employer abuses, like illegally refusing to pay minimum wage, termination without cause or notice, and working overtime without compensation.

Most of our members are undocumented, so Damayan helps them know their rights so they can protect themselves and live without fear. For those eligible, we help them adjust their immigration status. We also focus on labor rights so they learn how to overcome employer mistreatment, such as winning stolen wages, and advocate for better working conditions, such as just wages and benefits.

Our Numbers
Show Our Power

 
 

1500+

Members

 

200+

Workers mobilized over 10 years for annual general assembly

 
 

$1M+

in recovered wages for members

 

36+ 

workers assisted in escaping from exploitation

 
 

34

families reunited including 68 children and 24 spouses

 

3

settlements won for wages against diplomat traffickers

 
 

71

T-visas won

 
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Our STORIES of RESILIENCE

 

“I was working for a total of 102 hours a week with the same salary of $345.” - Sherile Pahagas

 

UPCOMING EVENTS

 

GET INVOLVED

We need you. Join our movement for fair labor standards and social justice.

Become a member, donate, or volunteer your skills.