For Immediate Release
July 18, 2024
Retail, warehouse, and factory workers across Minnesota unite to advocate for a livable wage
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Today at 2:45 pm, a drove of low-wage workers from across the state joined unions and advocates in a press conference to call on elected leaders to commit to raising the minimum wage to $25. The demand comes as workers struggle to cover the exorbitant cost of living in Minnesota.
Over the past two years, Minnesota has made significant strides in advancing worker rights. During the “Minnesota Miracle” legislative sessions of 2023 and 2024, Minnesotans witnessed the passage of landmark policies such as Paid Family and Medical Leave, Earned Sick and Safe Time, and the elimination of sub-minimum wage for youth and seasonal hospitality workers. However, despite these achievements, the statewide minimum wage has remained stagnant for over a decade.
“We work hard, we require family sustaining wages. $25 needs to be the minimum. For a family of four – two working adults with two kids, the living wage is $31.93 in Hennepin County and $24.51 in Nobles County,” said Rena Wong, President of United Food and Commercial Workers Local 663. “Workers drive profits and prosperity in our communities. A $25 minimum wage means working families in Minnesota can thrive – not merely survive. But nothing is ever given. Workers can win what workers are willing to fight for.”
SF 4019, the $20 minimum wage increase, is a step in the right direction towards bridging the gap, but it still falls short of providing working families with an opportunity to achieve financial stability. According to a study by the Economic Policy Institute, Minnesota’s current economy necessitates a minimum wage of $22 per hour for a singular worker, and $28 per hour for the head of a household of four to cover basic expenses.
“Raising the minimum wage to $25 is not just an economic necessity; it is a step towards closing the racial economic gap that has persisted for far too long,” said Rod Adams, Executive Director of New Justice Project MN. “A livable wage allows all working families, regardless of their racial background, zip code, or age, to earn enough not just to survive, but to thrive here in Minnesota. This change is about fairness, ensuring everyone has a fair chance at success in our state.”
Minnesota’s working class is sounding the alarm ahead of the legislative season to show elected officials the urgent need to address the growing disparity between wages and the cost of living. By increasing the minimum wage to $25, Minnesota can be a leader in the Midwest and take a significant step towards ensuring economic justice for its workers.
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Contact: Shakirah Edwards, shakirah@newjusticeprojectmn.org 952-681-0104
Jessica Hayssen, jessicah@ufcw663.org, 651-261-8559