Like most Americans, I wear my mask, wash my hands obsessively and am glued to the television looking at updates on the pandemic.
Every day, I see the heartfelt thanks that is given to the essential workers who risk their own health and safety in order to keep society functioning and the country running. The healthcare workers, the first responders, the grocery store employees, the long-haul truckers, the food delivery employees, the custodians – they all are receiving these well-warranted accolades for continuing to work while most hunker down at home.
It is what I don’t see and hear that bothers me.
A good number of our members work in the telecommunications industry, keeping the infrastructure alive and well. AT&T, AT&T Mobility, Frontier and Verizon employees are among the members that we represent.
In the past 40 plus days, I have yet to hear anything about these essential workers who, day in and day out, make sure the communities that we serve have the tools that they need so that they can work at home and continue to communicate with their loved ones.
Recently, the Mayor of Los Angeles, Eric Garcetti, announced that essential workers can get tested for coronavirus, even if they have no symptoms. I called the Mayor’s office, only to find out that this option does not apply to telecommunications workers, such as those who work for AT&T.
I was told that healthcare workers, first responders, grocery store workers, those who deliver food to people’s homes are all covered. But not AT&T!
How is that right? I agree that all essential workers should have the ability to be tested. But how is it that someone who drops food off at your doorstep, never entering your home, can get a test but the communications employees who enter homes daily to fix our customers wireline phones as well as connect and maintain their television and internet services, are Not included in this “essential workers” opportunity?
Shortly after my call to the Mayor’s office, Mayor Garcetti announced that All Los Angeles residents can receive testing, even if they are asymptomatic. This is good news, but doesn’t change the concern that many, myself included, have: Why is it that telecommunications employees are not being viewed in the same manner as other essential workers?
While many Americans lives are at a virtual standstill, these unsung heroes are out in the elements, putting themselves and their families at risk every day.
These frontline workers should receive the acknowledgement and thanks that they deserve, from both our city officials as well as the media. Local 9003, for one, is incredibly grateful for all these dedicated and hard-working telecommunications employees! You are appreciated!