You Deserve Respect at Work: Standing Up for Your Rights Is Never Selfish 

September 10, 2025

At Abramson Labor Group, we’ve spoken to thousands of hardworking employees who’ve been mistreated, underpaid, or simply disrespected at work. Too many of them start the conversation the same way: 

“I don’t want to make a big deal.” 
“I just need to keep my job.” 
“I’m probably overreacting.” 
“I can handle it like I always do.” 

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. And you’re definitely not selfish for wanting better. 

Every day, workers across California deal with discrimination, harassment, unpaid wages, unsafe conditions, or unfair treatment. Many suffer in silence, not because they’re weak, but because they’re scared. Scared of being labeled troublemaker. Scared of retaliation. Scared they’ll be fired or, worse, ignored. 

We see you and we want to remind you of something important: you deserve a workplace where you’re treated with respect and dignity. Not because of a policy or clause in a handbook. Because you’re a human being with rights, and those rights are protected under California and federal labor laws. 

Too often, people carry the weight of a toxic work environment on their backs, believing they just have to tough it out. But there’s a difference between resilience and resignation. You are allowed to expect more. You are allowed to speak up. And you are absolutely allowed to ask for help. 

We understand the fears. Fear of being retaliated against. Fear of being blacklisted. Fear of feeling like no one will believe you. But those fears shouldn’t stop you from getting the justice you deserve. California law is on your side, especially when employers cross the line. 

Whether you’ve been denied breaks, harassed because of who you are, retaliated against for reporting illegal behavior, or fired for simply exercising your rights, you are not alone. The burden of fixing that situation shouldn’t fall entirely on your shoulders. 

When you speak up, whether it’s HR, a trusted colleague, or an employment lawyer, you’re not just standing up for yourself. You’re creating a safer, fairer workplace for the people around you too. You might not see the impact right away, but it’s there. Every time someone takes a stand, it moves the line toward accountability. 

Our role at Abramson Labor Group isn’t to pressure you into legal action. It’s to give you the information and support you need to make an informed decision. If something doesn’t feel right at work, we can help you figure out your next step calmly, clearly, and confidentially. 

Fighting for your rights doesn’t have to be loud or dramatic. It can be quiet strength. It can be a single phone call. It can be the moment you stop saying “this is fine” and start saying “I deserve better.” 

If your workplace has crossed the line, trust your instinct. Your time, your peace of mind, and your future are worth protecting. 

We’re here to help you do exactly that with experience, compassion, and a team that actually listens. 

Let’s talk. Your consultation is free and confidential.