The thing is that these contractors shouldn't expect to be in the same level as a regular employee in terms of importance. And if they didn't fire these people, but they simply didn't bother to renew the contract, then that solidifies that position.
This past few months (can't recall how long it has been) have been full of layoffs across various industries. Their position just became even weaker.
Don't know why you're getting downvoted, but this is the reality.