US employers fired more than 100 workers for not coming to work during the "Day Without Immigrants" protest. The nationwide protest aimed to show how immigrants affect the economy.

The competitive labor market is giving employees more bargaining power with employers in matters such as telecommuting and vacation time. The key is to develop a culture where "people won't leave because they love working for the company," said consultant Richard Clark.

Companies are finding it more difficult to stay silent on political issues, writes Leslie Gaines-Ross of Weber Shandwick, whose research suggests that a near-majority of executives at large companies believes leadership should speak up on public policy concerns. Gaines-Ross suggests CEOs come up with a narrative "that connects the issue to their employees' and customers' everyday lives."

"Hidden Figures," a film about three African-American female mathematicians integral to the 1960s space race, is a perfect example of how deep prejudice interferes with talent recognition and progress, writes Terence Brake of TMA World. Brake urges employers to see the film and to normalize inclusivity, as prejudice appears to sneak back into the mainstream.

Workers employed by private businesses in the District of Columbia will soon be eligible for eight weeks of parental leave, six weeks to care for a sick relative, and two weeks of personal medical leave under new legislation passed by D.C. Council and awaiting a 30-day congressional review. Mayor Muriel Bowser has raised concerns about the bill's cost and the fact that it will benefit many who work in D.C. but don't live there.

Managers who can help employees feel as though they are equals are more likely to see creativity, trust, smart decisions and, ultimately, desired results, writes Mary Jo Asmus. Rising to leadership simply means "you have a responsibility to help people grow and develop, to contribute their ideas and to feel free to say what they are thinking," she argues.