We Don’t Have To Work This Way

IN TODAY’S CONVENIENCE-BASED economy, powered by 24-hour availability and instant shipping, we heavily rely on a labor force that is invisible. Gone are the days of an 8-hour workday and a 5-day workweek for most Americans, especially those in the service industry, gig economy, and logistics sector. Now gaining momentum is the “996” schedule—which stands for 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 60% of the U.S. workforce is paid hourly and work the shifts that allow for a 24-hour a day economy. To make that economy run, reports labor researcher Kristen Harknett, 69% are required by their employer to keep their schedules “open and available” to work whenever needed, often causing a major disruption in family life.