In conjunction with Labor Day, the US Bishops authored a letter (August 28, 2024) advocating better treatment of workers, stating that in today’s economy, too many people and families are living in poverty due to jobs with low pay, little or no benefits, and erratic schedules offering insufficient protections. Diminished union representation, especially in the private sector, leaves workers with less protection and a weakened bargaining position. The bishops recommend building a society that honors human dignity, especially highlighting the plight of immigrant and child laborers. Though immigrant workers have a positive impact on the economy, they are mistreated at a higher rate than their native-born counterparts. Human trafficking as well as general hostility and discrimination are major concerns. Immigration status is cited as a potential cause of wage theft; these workers fear reprisal if they speak up about missing wages or unjust practices. The letter goes on to describe that shortcomings in the immigration system, coupled with the issue of labor shortages, increase opportunities for the exploitation of immigrants and can lead to using children as a source of labor. Government statistics reveal a troubling increase of child labor law violations, and several states have taken steps to weaken these laws, resulting in harm especially to children whose families live in poverty. The bishops urge immigration reform, arguing that it’s possible to create a thriving economy with dignified conditions for all workers. We must reject an economy of exclusion.