We Need a Raise

Raising the minimum wage is an important step toward an economy that works for everyone, not just the richest 1%.

Putting more money into the pockets of ordinary Americans is a no-brainer. If we reduced income inequality, we'd boost our economy. Small businesses would grow and hire, and we'd put people back to work.

• The minimum wage can't support our families. The current federal minimum wage—at $7.25 an hour—amounts to only $15,080 a year. That's almost $9,000 below the federal poverty line for a family of four.
• We get $7.25. They get 725%. The federal minimum wage hasn't kept up with inflation, but CEO pay has risen 725% over the last 30 years. 80% of all real income growth has gone to the richest 1% of Americans.
• A fair change for a better life. If the federal minimum wage had kept up with inflation over the past 40 years, it would currently be at $10.55.

According to a new report published by the Economic Policy Institute, raising the federal minimum wage would increase the national GDP by $25 billion, generating an increase in California of over $2.4 billion in additional income for its 3,143,095 million affected workers while creating 11,300 new jobs.

In California alone, it would mean an increased wages of $654 per year. If you were making $15,080 a year and sustaining a family, can you imagine what that would mean for you?

Sign our petition to raise the minimum wage. Together, we can end the growing gap between the rich and the rest of us. →