As I raise the fork to my mouth, loaded with mashed squash, I cannot bring myself to eat it. I think about all of the Walmart workers, fasting so they can feed their children.
They cannot afford to eat every day AND have enough to provide for the family. Tears come to my eyes. I can’t NOT KNOW, now that I already do. Can’t unlearn that fact. The emotional side caught up with the practical.
Logically, I understand these large corporations are not supporting their workers. So many stores close, a lot of small, family-owned operations when Walmart comes to town.
The workers are forced to get jobs where they can, the only place within busing, walking, carpooling distance. Walmart.
No resistance?
Guess again.
Many of the employees I spoke with yesterday were grim-faced and terrified of their futures.
What they didn’t expect was not to be able to provide for their family while having a job.
Not enough money for Christmas presents, someone inquires??
"NOT ENOUGH MONEY FOR FOOD." The response was tearful.
I would love to witness the higher-ups in the company living on the monthly wages their average worker makes, for just ONE MONTH.
Can they do it?
Know how many states you can live in, and survive on the minimum wage?
ZERO!!!
That’s right, none.
I work several businesses, in order to make my life expenses merge. I have the capacity to figure it out since I’ve moved many times in my life, starting over, reconfiguring my life in a new place. Self-employment isn't for everyone, however.
Out of curiosity, I turn to the Want Ads to get a gander on the workforce opportunities in the vicinity.
Most of the part-time jobs pay between $8 and $12 per hour. A great number of them are temporary.
What?
Walmart workers are asking for $15/hour, which STILL keeps them at the level of destitution.
I ask you, are you willing to not eat because you cannot feed your kids?
How should that even be a consideration, in the wealthiest country on the planet?
Support your Walmart worker, help them help themselves by demanding $15 an hour wages.
PLEASE!!
and thank you