In today's episode we look at what types of work are considered essential, how we treat our essential workers (spoiler: poorly), and what all of us can do to support America's essential workforce.Before diving in, Antoinette calls attention to an A+ video about vote-by-mail from TX-10 Democratic candidate Mike Siegel, and Lucas gives an update on the never-ending Dallas hairdresser saga, now revealed to be (predictably) a stunt. We also take listeners through TX-21 Rep. Chip Roy's latest embarrassing meltdown/plea for campaign donations, this one provoked by... a completely non-controversial non-binding anti-discrimination resolution from the San Antonio City Council.For our main topic, Antoinette leads us on a deep-dive into essential work: what work is considered "essential" during COVID-19? And how can we better support these workers who allow our society to function?Among the resources we use to understand essential work in America: this demographic profile of the country's essential workers; this Community Impact story on how coronavirus is affecting those still going into work here in Travis County; and this Marketwatch piece on the difference between essential workers and essential work. We also explore how race has factored into the equation, recommending Adam Serwer's essay, "The Coronavirus Was an Emergency Until Trump Found Out Who Was Dying," and touch on recent protests for better working conditions among essential workers.What can you do to support America's essential workers?Our call to action today is to call your senators and your Congressperson and demand that they include the Essential Workers Bill of Rights in the next coronavirus aid package. Looking for a script to help you make your call? Both Indivisible and Greenpeace have great scripts for calling both your Democratic and Republican members of Congress. Make your first call today.This episode was recorded on Monday, May 11, 2020.

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