Rivi, WeDiB Houston

Each month, we highlight the voices and stories of our members who are making a difference in the domestic work movement. These interviews celebrate the dedication, skill, and heart that care workers bring to their communities, while shedding light on their personal journeys, inspirations, and visions for a future where all care work is respected and valued.

Rivi, WeDiB Houston

What does Care Recognition month mean to you? 

Care Recognition means a lot as a fourth generation domestic worker because we have come a long way in the domestic work industry. Across the country, we have been able to change labor laws to protect domestic workers and we still have to keep fighting for better workplace protections. I was excited and happy to be a part of history in the making and now we have April as the month to recognize and lift up the contributions of care workers.

As a mother, what was your inspiration to become a domestic worker? 

When I was younger, in the summertime I babysat my nieces, nephews and the neighborhood children. As a mother, I knew having my own children would bring me so much joy because I have always loved children, especially babies. I enjoy watching their development and milestones. I was inspired to be a professional nanny because I have seen the rewards from my other relatives who provided care and I am gratified seeing the accomplishments of children because of your care, love and support in their lives.

Share a highlight being in a movement that centers care and women. 

I am ecstatic to support other domestic workers to learn about their rights and become empowered to advocate for themselves in the workplace. Domestic work can be isolating, but joining the movement makes a difference because we are a part of a larger community focused on taking our fight to a different level ensuring that all domestic workers have adequate labor protections. 

Words of inspiration

“Be honorable to yourself and you will be honorable to other people in the world.”