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OUR Walmart member Bene’t Holmes

On July 22, the White House honored local “Champions of Change,” leaders and ordinary Americans taking action to raise wages and advocate for full-time schedules for working women and men around the country. The honorees are activists, advocates, business owners, and workers who are looking to reestablish the basic premise that no American working 40 hours a week should have to live in poverty. The Champions were distinguished through their community involvement, hard work, and sacrifice.  The event showcased these inspirational leaders and highlighted the importance of providing all Americans with the dignity of a decent wage and full-time hours. Walmart worker and OUR Walmart member Bene’t Holmes was one of the honorees.

Holmes is a mother who works for Walmart and is paid $8.75 an hour. Holmes is involved with the movement “Respect the Bump,” which calls for a stronger policy for pregnant workers and will allow them to work while protecting their health. She has been calling for the company to publicly commit to paying a minimum of $25,000 a year, providing full time work, and ending the company’s illegal retaliation against workers who are speaking out for better jobs.

“I’m proud to be part of a movement that’s leading the fight to change the way Walmart does business, and hope my story will inspire others to take a stand for better workplace conditions,” said Holmes.

Read Holmes’ story and how she became involved in OUR Walmart and the “Respect the Bump” campaign to raise the standards for Walmart workers and ensure that all pregnant women at Walmart are able to get light duty when they need it.