Home Care Workers Demonstrate Nationwide for a Wage Increase
Home care workers across the country have been rallying for a wage increase and better working conditions since launching the Home Care Fight for $15 on October 14.
Home care workers plan to hold events in 12 cities over five consecutive days, Think Progress reported.
The home care workers are targeting politicians such as Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, who opposes a higher minimum wage, and Ohio Governor John Kasich, who is opposed to organized labor, the Washington Post explained.
U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky, who recently shadowed a home care worker during a PHI Come Care with Me Day, joined the home care workers in Chicago on October 15.
In a Service Employees Union International (SEIU) press release, Schakowsky said:
It’s outrageous that these workers — overwhelmingly women — should have to fight for a decent wage and basic dignity on the job. I will have their backs until they win, and so should every other elected official in this country who cares about the future of America’s workers, our economy, and ensuring we can meet the growing need for quality long-term services.
The median hourly wage for home health aides and personal care aides is $10.10 and $9.67, respectively.
The Home Care Fight for $15 has been organized by the SEIU, of which 600,000 of the nation’s 2.1 million home care workers are members, according to the Post article.
Home care workers joined fast food workers on September 4 in a multi-city protest for better wages and to push for unionization.
— by Deane Beebe
