Summary
The Fight for $15 movement has reshaped labor markets, elevated wages for millions, and advanced equity and economic justice in the United States. By analyzing outcomes such as racial wealth gap reduction, union membership growth, and broader economic effects, these reports underscore the movement’s significant contributions to improving worker livelihoods and addressing systemic inequities.
Ten-Year Legacy of the Fight for $15 and a Union Movement
By Yannet Lathrop, Matthew D. Wilson, and T. William Lester
This report commemorates the decade-long impact of the Fight for $15 movement, which began in 2012 with fast-food workers demanding a $15 minimum wage and union representation. Since its inception through 2021, the movement has secured $150 billion in additional wages for 26 million workers, with $76 billion benefiting workers of color.
Key findings include:
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Workers of color, particularly Black and Latinx workers, saw faster increases in median net worth in states with higher minimum wages, narrowing the racial wealth gap.
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States with higher wages experienced a 3.8% increase in union membership, countering national declines. Unionized workers earned a $7/hour premium in these states.
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Wage increases generated $87.6 billion in annual economic output and supported 452,000 jobs each year.
The report highlights how higher wages benefit historically underpaid communities, with significant equity implications. However, disparities persist in Southern states, which remain tethered to the federal minimum wage.
Quantifying the Impact of the Fight for $15
By Yannet Lathrop, T. William Lester, and Matthew D. Wilson
This report on the tangible economic outcomes of the Fight for $15 from 2012 to 2021. Using U.S. Census data, it estimates that the movement has benefited 26 million workers, with significant gains for women and workers of color:
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Affected workers received an additional $150 billion in wages, with $76 billion going to workers of color and $70 billion to women.
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Higher minimum wages reduced the Black-white wage gap by 12% and had a profound impact in reducing racial and gender pay disparities.
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Over 11 states and dozens of localities adopted $15 minimum wage laws, driven by worker advocacy and community support.
The report underscores that while the Fight for $15 has achieved unprecedented gains, much work remains, particularly in states adhering to the federal minimum wage of $7.25.
People
Associate Director of Economic & Workforce Development, UIC Great Cities Institute