More than 2 million people — many of them immigrants and women of color — care for our nation’s homes, children and families. Their work allows the people who employ them to work outside of the home.

However, housekeepers, nannies, and caregivers have long been excluded from federal labor laws. Some continue to be excluded from overtime pay. They can’t get workers compensation if they’re injured on the job. In many states, they have no recourse if they are harassed by their employer.

After years of workers lifting up their voices to put an end to their second-class status, Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA) and Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) introduced companion bills to give domestic workers basic labor rights and better job standards.

The legislation, known as the Domestic Workers Bill of Rights Act, would essentially include domestic workers in common workplace rights and protections. It would ensure domestic workers receive paid sick days, meal and rest breaks, and privacy protections. The bill would also establish rights and benefits to address the unique needs of domestic workers, such as fair scheduling protections and workforce development programs that could lead to better wages and opportunities for domestic workers.

We must demand that Congress support the Domestic Workers Bill of Rights Act. The deck has been stacked against women, people of color and lower-wage workers for too long.