Oakland Raiders Cheerleader Launches Legal Action Against Team Over Wage Dispute

A cheerleader for the Oakland Raiders has launched legal action against the NFL franchise last week on behalf of current and former Raiderettes, claiming they broke California labour laws by failing to pay them adequately or on time.

Lacy T, who worked as a Raiderette for the 2013-2014 season, said that the Raiders pay cheerleaders only $US1250 for an entire season and withhold wages until the end of the season.

“I’m hoping that they change their policies and procedures for every Raiderette who comes after me, and maybe other NFL teams will do the same,” said Lacy, who is using only her last initial out of fear for her safety.

Lacy’s lawyer, Sharon Vinick, said her client began working as a Raiders cheerleader last April but wasn’t paid until recently. Vinick said that, taking into account time spent rehearsing, performing and appearing at events, the $US1250 amounts to less than $US5 an hour. Minimum wage in California is $8 an hour.

“I have never seen an employment contract with so many illegal provisions,” Vinick said. “The club uses the Raiderettes to build its image, sell merchandise, and promote the team. Yet, they don’t pay these women during the course of the season, even though they are required to do so under California law.”