As a young adult stepping into the world, I have come face-to-face with the harsh reality of making ends meet. Despite holding two jobs, I struggle to keep a roof over my head. It's not just me - many in our community are giving their all to jobs that overwork them and fail to pay them what they're worth.

In Louisiana, the minimum wage is currently set at $7.25 per hour – an amount that hasn't changed since 2009. This stagnation does not reflect the rising cost of living or inflation rates over the past decade (Bureau of Labor Statistics). A full-time worker earning this wage makes only $15,080 annually before taxes – far below the federal poverty line for a family of two.

Raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour would help hardworking Louisianans like myself substantiate a basic living and reduce income inequality in our state (Economic Policy Institute). It's time for us to stand up for workers' rights and demand fair compensation for our labor.

Please sign this petition if you believe in economic justice and want your fellow Louisianans to earn a livable wage. Let's show that we value people more than profits!