Kim Kavin, an advocate for independent contractors based in New Jersey, has received the Defender of Worker Freedom award from the Institute for the American Worker (I4AW). The award recognizes her efforts to support policies that empower American workers.
Kavin has played a leading role in opposing a proposed rule by the New Jersey Department of Labor, which would make it more difficult for people to work as freelancers in the state. The proposal has drawn significant opposition, with over 9,500 letters submitted and more than 99% expressing disapproval.
“Kim Kavin continues to publicize the struggles independent workers face against government overreach and bring real life context to how specific regulations would hinder their ability to prosper,” said I4AW President F. Vincent Vernuccio.
Kavin began her freelance career in 2003 after working in staff positions for ten years. In 2019, she co-founded Fight for Freelancers, a grassroots group focused on organizing and educating independent contractors about policy issues affecting them.
Her advocacy was previously recognized by the American Society of Journalists and Authors in 2021 with its Exceptional Service Award. The society cited her “leadership and heroic efforts on behalf of freelance writers” during campaigns against California’s Assembly Bill 5 and the Protecting the Right to Organize Act—both seen as threats to independent contracting models.
Kavin first testified before Congress about protecting independent contractors in 2023 and has since met with lawmakers and their staff on this issue. She also publishes a newsletter called “Freelance Busting” on Substack.
Alongside Kavin, Missouri Representative Robert F. Onder was also honored with I4AW’s Defender of Worker Freedom award at a ceremony held in Washington, D.C., on December 4.
