Korean Immigrant Workers Advocates of Southern California

Clean Carwash Workers Organizing Committee (CWOC) brings workers together from carwashes across the region. Through CWOC meetings, workers build solidarity across the industry, learn and educate others about their economic and political rights, get connected with organizing or legal support, and develop their leadership skills. CWOC allows the Campaign to go from organizing carwash by carwash to movement building and connecting car washers to the larger struggle for social justice.

Through a range of campaigns, projects, and services, KIWA organizes immigrant workers, renters, and their families to promote workplace and housing justice, immigrants' rights, democratic and sustainable community development, civic participation, racial and gender justice, and cultural resistance. Programs include strategic enforcement of workplace rights; a worker clinic; outreach and education among immigrant workers; policy and advocacy campaigns for social and economic justice; English and other classes and workshops; organizing; leadership development; civic engagement; and affordable housing. During this year, KIWA also pivoted to add significant outreach, services, and advocacy in support of immigrant workers and their families affected by the pandemic.