Over the last three years, ROC-Michigan has led many efforts to advance justice in our workplaces and in our communities.  Here are some of our accomplishments:

Research & Policy

Published a comprehensive, community-based research and policy report on the Southeast Michigan restaurant industry, Behind the Kitchen Door, based on 500 worker surveys, 32 employer interviews, and government data.  Our research demonstrated that workers of color were largely concentrated in the lowest paying jobs in the industry and were the most likely to experience widespread violations of their rights.  The report called for policy and industry changes to increase access for low-wage workers of color to living wage jobs in the industry, attracting local and national media attention.

Organized a coalition of several dozen faith-based, labor, community, economic development, business and environmental groups to unite behind the Good Food, Good Jobs camapign, which will help ensure that workers are treated fairly, that consumers are sold safe foods, and that employers who do play by the rules enjoy a level playing field.

Workplace Justice

Recovered tens of thousands of dollars in unpaid wages for our region’s exploited restaurant workers

Secured innovative agreements with area employers on working conditions

Mobilized more than 1,500 restaurant workers and community allies to take action in support of restaurant workers who rights are being violated on the job

High Road

Opened COLORS — a community-based restaurant in the heart of downtown Detroit that incubates worker-owned food businesses

Launched the COLORS Hospitality for Workers Institute, an innovative professional training program designed to move restaurant workers into living wage jobs in the industry

Convened the Southeast Michigan Restaurant Industry Coalition and the Southeast Michigan Restaurant Industry Roundtable, diverse multi-stakeholder groups of over 40 employers, workforce and economic development agencies, faith-based institutions, post-secondary schools, community groups, and unions dedicated to promoting equitable workforce solutions