SXSW 2020
The Rise of Contracting In Tech: Underground Story
Description:
A panel discussing the rise of contracting in tech and the implications it has on workers, labor rights, and the future of technology.
What you won't see in an HBO comedy show about tech is the countless number of people who work underground and out of sight to keep the big machine trundling forward. Harvard studies have shown that 97% of all new jobs added since the recession have been "alternative work arrangements". It is estimated that within the next few years over half of the tech industry will be working in similar employment arrangements. Without benefits, paid leave, guaranteed sick days, reliable schedules, protections from sexual harassment, or recourse to object to firing without cause.
What will tech workers do, and what does this mean for you?
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Takeaways
- Tech companies use contracting to shield themselves from responsibility to their workers and society, and the liability that goes along with it.
- Contracting is increasing in the tech industry. This is historically new and it's fundamentally different than previous contracting work.
- Contract workers need to be aware of their rights, and the resources available to them, such as the Tech Workers Coalition.
Speakers
- Aslan French, Design Technologist Contractor, Jackalope Co.
- Casey Newton, Silicon Valley editor , The Verge
- Kat Lo, Content Moderation Lead, Meedan
- Martha Owen, Attorney/Shareholder, Deats, Durst & Owen, PLLC
Organizer
Aslan French, Design Technologist Contractor, N/A
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