What is an essential worker? When the COVID-19 pandemic first hit our region, we heard a lot about them. People who worked in Healthcare, sanitation, supermarkets, and the post office became essential. They risked their health to keep us all going. So what are we doing for them? What sectors of work are essential? Who decides? And how are essential workers compensated for putting themselves on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic? We also take a look at the history of how the pandemic highlighted the importance of essential workers and how they keep us all going as we make our way through this health crisis. A conversation with guests: Jennifer Klein, Professor of 20th Century US History at Yale University Roger Senserrich, Communications Director Working Families Organization , Connecticut Stephanie Hoopes - Director of the United Way ALICE Project Sal Luciano, President of the CT AFL-CIO