Policy Matters welcomes Ali Smith as Worker Center Network Liaison
Posted June 15, 2022 in Press Releases
This month, Ali Smith joined Policy Matters Ohio as Worker Center Network Liaison, increasing the organization’s capacity to improve conditions for working Ohioans.
Smith will support Ohio’s network of three worker centers, the Cincinnati Interfaith Workers Center, the Central Ohio Worker Center, and the Northeast Ohio Worker Center. Worker centers are community-based organizations that support low-paid workers through advocacy, organizing, and legal assistance. Smith will help the centers build long-term capacity through fundraising, communications, and outreach. Policy Matters Executive Director Hannah Halbert says it’s a role Smith is uniquely suited for considering her commitment to the Central Ohio Worker Center as a board member and a volunteer communications coordinator.
“Ali’s project management skills helped grow the Central Ohio Worker Center and achieve real victories for working people,” said Halbert, who also serves on the center’s board. “Her professionalism and polish helped us reach people who had wages stolen by their employers with videos and radio ads. She helped create momentum that eventually led to Columbus City Council passing an ordinance to protect workers from wage theft.”
Born and raised in Stark County, Smith lives in Hocking Hills with her family. She studied graphic design and communications at Metropolitan State University of Denver. Because of her previous experience in low-wage work positions, she truly understands the needs of people who come to worker centers for help. Smith spent time in the restaurant industry waiting tables and as a barista at Starbucks. She also worked in child care and as a nanny.
“I grew up in a family supported and empowered by union steelwork, so I know first-hand how important it is for working people to have a voice on the job,” Smith said. “With so much of the power in the hands of wealthy corporations that are hostile to collective bargaining rights, worker centers play an important role in making sure working people are safe and are paid a decent wage for all the hours they put in. I am so excited to play a part in supporting their critical mission.”