Wade Mapley, LLC

Valentine’s Day at the office should be about fun, treats, and good vibes—not awkward advances or unwanted attention. 🙅‍♀️

Just because it’s a holiday doesn’t mean flirting becomes acceptable. If a coworker or boss’s behavior makes you uncomfortable, it’s not romantic—it’s harassment.

Celebrate the season safely, and remember: respect is always in style.

Black History Month is also a time to acknowledge the realities Black workers continue to face in today’s labor force. ✊🏾

According to a 2023 Pew Research Center survey, 41% of Black workers report experiencing discrimination at work in hiring, pay, or promotions because of race or ethnicity. That number is significantly higher than reported by Asian (25%), Hispanic (20%), and White (8%) workers.

These disparities aren’t just statistics—they reflect real workplace experiences that demand awareness, accountability, and a clear understanding of employee rights.

🔗 Read the full Pew Research Center article here:
pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/08/31/black-workers-views-and-experiences-in-the-us-labor-force-stand-out-in-key-ways

Pew Research Center

We’re proud to stand alongside organizations creating real, measurable change for workers across Northeast Ohio. 💪

Last year, we had the privilege of supporting the Northeast Ohio Worker Center (NEO) as they reached more workers than ever—helping recover $54,141 in back wages, supporting 109 workers in organizing efforts, providing Know Your Rights trainings to 407 workers, and assisting 199 workers through workplace navigation services.

From wage theft clinics to pay equity advocacy and expanding collective bargaining education for students, NEO is turning individual workplace challenges into systemic impact.

We’re honored to support work that protects workers, strengthens communities, and advances fairness across our region. 🌎✨

Northeast Ohio Worker Center

In recognition of World Breast Pumping Day, it’s helpful to understand what workplace law currently requires.

Under the Providing Urgent Maternal Protections (PUMP) Act, covered employers must provide employees with a private space, other than a bathroom, that is shielded from view and free from intrusion for the purpose of expressing breast milk. ✅

The law does not require employers to provide a refrigerator or refrigerated storage for expressed breast milk. ❌

Understanding existing workplace protections is important for both employers and employees to navigate their rights and responsibilities with clarity.