Summary

A Campaign for Dignity and Respect tells the story of how Step Up Louisiana and the New Orleans Health Department joined forces to win transformative protections for low-wage workers in New Orleans. Using an “inside-outside” strategy, the community power-building group and the public agency aligned their efforts to pass a landmark Workers’ Bill of Rights, despite working within a state generally hostile to worker protections. Their victory shows how public health departments and grassroots organizers can achieve lasting change by collaborating strategically and equitably.

The campaign was rooted in a shared understanding: that economic insecurity harms health. Step Up Louisiana mobilized workers and built community momentum around demands like a $15 minimum wage, paid leave, and union rights. Meanwhile, the Health Department provided data and political insights to bolster the case for change. Together, they crafted a ballot measure and ran a citywide campaign that connected workplace dignity with health equity. The Workers’ Bill of Rights passed in November 2024 with overwhelming public support—an 80% majority.

Their success was shaped by years of trust-building, shared crisis response, and participation in HIP's Power-building Partnerships for Health initiative. That initiative provided structured space for the two organizations to align goals and tactics. The collaboration offers a replicable model for how health departments can support—not overshadow—community-led solutions.

Ultimately, the case story underscores a vital truth: real change requires pressure from both outside and inside government. The ballot win was a major milestone, but the work continues to ensure implementation and accountability. As David Williams, a Step Up Louisiana member and Dollar Store worker reminds us, “It’s important to have better pay and wages, but he most important part is our dignity and respect.”

Watch: A short video about the collaboration highlighting Step Up’s long term movement building work and the essential role governmental public health can play in supporting community power building organizations.