Huge_Tale8929's journey

I was recently laid off from a disorganized art gallery in California after they closed one of their two locations. They offered me a severance of around $400 in exchange for signing a contract that prevents me from pursuing any further claims. I signed the contract and sent it back, but now, two weeks later, they have stopped responding to my follow-ups. My ex-coworkers are still working there and continuing business as usual, but I've heard they have a reputation for not paying freelance workers, like photographers, at all. I'm considering whether to keep pursuing my severance or to take action regarding the lack of breaks I endured during my 8-hour shifts. I'm unsure how to proceed and would appreciate any advice.