¿Don’t Dominicans like to work?

For many years I have heard, repeated almost like a dogma, that “Dominicans don’t like to work.” In itself, it is an unbearable phrase to hear. It is curious that those who repeat this farce the most, in many cases, are foreign entrepreneurs who settle in countries like ours and find in illegal labor a profitable business. Labor without rights, without a voice, without the ability to claim; cheap, vulnerable, and replaceable labor.

It’s enough to take a walk through certain establishments of Asian foreigners, turned into real human caves, where it has been reported that illegal workers are crammed together, who are paid next to nothing, taking advantage of their desperation to survive far from a homeland that is falling apart. There is no respect, no schedules, no social security. Only need turned into profit.

They are not satisfied with the advantages that the Dominican State provides them to the detriment of local businesses and entrepreneurs. The same occurs in the construction sector, where dozens of towers are erected that beautify the city while the discourse that “Dominicans don’t like to work” is maintained. Or in agriculture, where, likewise, many prefer illegal labor, because it is cheaper, does not protest and does not demand. But the problem has never been the Dominican’s lack of willingness to work. The problem is the lack of willingness to pay fairly, to offer humane conditions, or to comply with the law. The Dominican works hard, inside and outside of their country. They demonstrate it in every Dominican community abroad, where they are recognized for their effort and responsibility. They demonstrate it here, even when they are not offered a decent salary, security, and respect.

Saying that “Dominicans don’t like to work” is a convenient lie. An unfair phrase that hides ruthless and deeply hypocritical practices.