The Fight for Fair Wages: Los Angeles Workers Push for Higher Minimum Wage
As the 2028 Los Angeles Games loom on the horizon, hotel and airport workers in Los Angeles are rallying for a raise in the minimum wage. With the Paris Olympics garnering global attention, these workers see an opportunity to leverage the spotlight on the city and advocate for better pay.
The Call for Change: Advocating for the “Olympic Wage”
The Tourism Workers Rising coalition, composed of unions, faith-based and community organizations, is leading the charge for a significant increase in the minimum wage for tourism workers. They are urging the Los Angeles City Council to raise the minimum wage to $25 an hour, with incremental raises leading up to $30 by the time the 2028 Olympics roll around.
Aiming for Economic Justice: Supporting Essential Workers in the Tourism Industry
Supporters of the proposed wage hike, dubbed the “Olympic wage,” argue that essential workers in the hotel and airline industries deserve fair compensation. These workers have been on the front lines, risking their health during the pandemic to ensure the smooth operation of facilities. As Los Angeles anticipates hosting major events like the World Cup and the Olympics, there is a call for economic justice to ensure that these workers can afford to live and work in the city.
Overall, the push for higher wages in the tourism sector in Los Angeles reflects a larger trend across the country, as cities grapple with the need to provide livable wages for essential workers. Transitioning into a post-pandemic economy, the focus on fair compensation for those who drive the tourism industry is crucial for building a more equitable society.
