Debate in Santo Domingo: Does changing the term “domestic worker” improve the employment situation?
The recent proposal by President Luis Abinader, aimed at replacing the term “domestic worker” because he considers it derogatory, has sparked an intense debate among the citizens of Santo Domingo. The initiative, which seeks to dignify the work of those who work in the home, has generated mixed reactions as to whether the change in nomenclature is truly a priority.
While a part of the population views the use of more inclusive and respectful language favorably, other sectors insist that government efforts should focus on improving structural employment conditions, such as wages, social security, and legal protection.
Priorities: Language or legal framework?
For many citizens, the underlying problem does not lie in the name of the profession, but in the lack of guarantees that these workers experience. José Antonio Monedero Jiménez, one of those consulted, was emphatic in pointing out that the focus must be on the law.
I believe that what needs to change is not the name, but the legal framework that protects them. They can give it twenty thousand poetic names, whatever, and if the legal framework that exists, the quality of life they can obtain means nothing.
José Antonio Monedero Jiménez
Monedero Jiménez emphasized that the profession is dignified in itself and that there is no reason to feel shame, suggesting that the Government should prioritize labor benefits and access to health insurance for these workers.
Divided voices in the capital
- Conservative stance: Some citizens, such as Jordan Hernández, consider that the term is not derogatory and that it is simply a use of language. Hernández advocated for calling things by their name and avoiding unnecessary changes.
- Supportive stance: In contrast, citizens like Gladys support the initiative under the argument that a “nicer” term could raise the self-esteem of the workers. According to her, many avoid identifying with their occupation due to the stigma that still persists in society.
Ultimately, the debate over the term “domestic worker” has highlighted the need for a balance. The discussion underscores that, beyond semantics, the true challenge for authorities and society remains the comprehensive dignification of domestic work, integrating both social recognition and the strengthening of their fundamental rights.
