PRACTITIONER BLOG
Read our analyses of developments in Impact Litigation and stay current on class action law
Settlements bring key technology, other accommodations for Deaf, hard of hearing, and blind incarcerated people in Colorado
When Brian Mackes wants to submit a grievance challenging prison conditions, contact the infirmary with his medical concerns, or write a letter to his lawyer, he has to dictate his words to a fellow prisoner* who writes them down and – he hopes – writes them legibly, spells them correctly, and keeps them in confidence. Zach Radford did not understand the teachers in his required therapeutic class and was eventually removed from the class for nonparticipation; he remained on the waiting list for other required classes while others were admitted. Mr. Mackes is blind; Mr. Radford is Deaf;** both are prisoners in the custody of the Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC).
Our Bosses Are Spying On Us: Here’s How We Can Fight Back Against Bossware
Workers’ advocates should ensure that workers understand their rights under applicable laws and encourage them to document and report uses of bossware that threaten their health and safety. Advocates should also share information with each other about harmful employer practices and technologies so that they are better-positioned both to protect workers and push for systemic policy changes. Employers will not slow their adoption of bossware systems, nor lessen other exploitative practices. Advocates must remain vigilant to ensure that bossware’s spread does not further erode workers’ rights to just labor conditions, continued well-being, and inherent dignity.