More than a paycheck: nannies, work, and identity

Abstract

Nannies are paid childcare providers employed in private households. In Northeastern cities, they vary by many personal characteristics, including race, ethnicity, immigrant status, and education. This study compares the identity work of two groups of nannies: one composed of immigrant women of color and the other composed mainly of US-born white women. Building upon existing research on the difference between precarious work and precarious working conditions in domestic work, this study finds that immigrant women of color respond to disrespect and discrimination by defending the respectability of their work and their personal dignity. In contrast, US-born and white women respond to the stigma of doing socially devalued work by distancing themselves from their work. The implications of workers’ agency and identity on organizing and social movements are considered.