Everyone deserves to have access to necessities. To deny a livable wage is to condemn citizens to poverty, suffering, and even death. People should not have to decide between paying their electricity bill and paying for medical treatment. We should not have to choose between doing what we love and struggling to make ends meet or doing something we hate just to earn a living. We should be able to pursue happiness and have our needs met without breaking our backs and working multiple jobs.

For millions, the current minimum wage is far below the cost of living. The federal minimum hourly wage is just $7.25. Congress has not increased it since 2009. $2.13 per hour is the federal subminimum wage for tipped workers; it hasn’t changed since 1991. 

"In 2025, at the national average, an adult without children requires an annual income of $48,000 before taxes to cover all essential needs. The required annual income is $80,506 and $117,176, respectively, for a two-adult family (one working) with one child and a two-adult family (both working) with two children. However, the annual income based on the current federal minimum wage rate ($7.25) is only less than one third of the required income for an adult without children, 18.7% of the required annual income for a two-adult family (one working) with one child, and 25.7% of the required annual income for a two-adult family (both working) with two children." - https://rise.vcu.edu/news/news-posts/equity-implications-of-the-unchanged-federal-minimum-wage-since-2009.html

The consequences of inadequate wages are profound. Without sufficient income, families are plunged into difficult situations, some having to choose between basic necessities like housing, food, and healthcare. Additionally, chronic financial stress leads to increased health problems, further burdening already stretched resources. Studies consistently show that a livable wage can lead to improved mental and physical health, reduce socio-economic disparities, and create stronger and more sustainable communities.

Raising the minimum wage to a living wage is not just a financial issue; it's a moral imperative. It's about ensuring that every person has the dignity of a decent life, free from the shackles of poverty. This change would also stimulate the economy by increasing consumer purchasing power, reducing the need for government assistance programs, and enhancing overall productivity.

We urge policymakers and government officials to take immediate and decisive action to raise the minimum wage to meet the cost of living standards. Together, let's demand a brighter and more equitable future for everyone.

Please sign this petition to advocate for a living wage for all.