As on-call gig workers for Restaurant Associates and CxRA in New York City, we've faced significant financial challenges since the pandemic. Prices have surged across the board, making it clear that inflation is not just a passing trend, but a pressing reality that demands urgent action. Yet, despite these economic pressures, our wages have stagnated since 2022.

Currently, our operational reality is that captains are compensated $36 per hour and servers/bartenders at $28 per hour for their invaluable services. However, we're fully aware that to the end client, these roles are billed at approximately $70 and $50 per hour, respectively. This discrepancy not only highlights an inequitable pay structure, but it also showcases how the staffing office profits double from our labor. The fair and just labor practices we advocate for necessitate a reevaluation of wage policies to reflect actual living costs since the onset of the global pandemic. Meanwhile, the catering company continues to earn billions in profits each year.

Other event companies are easily paying their captains and servers/bartenders $50-60 and $35-45 respectively. To further explain gig work - we do not have a set full-time schedule. Our lives are based on the events that come in which provide us with hours during the spring and fall busy seasons. Most of us need to supplement with a second or third job, while the company profits off our labor.  

We understand the complexity and challenges businesses face, especially in the current economy, yet it's undeniable that the dedicated workforce driving these operations is equally deserving of fair compensation. In demanding a raise, we're asking for recognition and respect for the hard work and essential services we provide. What we seek is fairness in our earnings, which translates to improved livelihoods for us and our families.

A call to action: We urge Restaurant Associates and CxRA to engage in meaningful dialogue with their workforce to negotiate equitable pay rates that truly reflect both market conditions and the value of our professional contributions. We believe that by doing so, these companies will foster a more motivated and sustainable workforce.

Please stand with us in demanding fair wage increases for NYC Restaurant Associates and CxRA on-call gig workers. Supporting this petition contributes to a future where our compensation matches our dedication and the high standard of service we provide.

Sign this petition to show your support for fair pay and bring about much-needed change in our workplace.