Oakland Raiders Cheerleaders Sue for Wages

The Oakland Raiders have something more to worry about than just their last-place standing in the AFC West Conference. Their cheerleaders have banded against them. The Raiderettes, as they are fondly known, are suing the Raiders for a variety of wages claims, including failure to pay all earned wages, failure to reimburse business expenses, and perhaps even minimum wage.

Lead plaintiff, “Lacy T.” alleges that the Raiders hold the cheerleaders’ pay until the end of season, and when they do get paid, not all hours worked are reflected in their compensation. Additionally, the women have to pay for their own make –up and hairstyling, two services that are mandated by the Raider’s Club but are expected to pay for it themselves.  These expenses are cost upwards of $500. On top of those expenses, the Raiderettes must pay for their own traveling expenses to away functions and other work-related events like photoshoots.

The suit alleges that the women of the team only receive a yearly payment of $1,250, which is comically below the minimum wage. As Lacy T. states, “I love the Raiders and I love being a Raiderette, but someone has to stand up for all the women in the NFL…”