Summary
Over 1,000 rallies took place in the United States during Labor Day, with tens of thousands of people protesting against various policies of President Donald Trump. The protests, held in all 50 states, focused on demanding better worker protections and addressing issues like minimum wage and healthcare. In Chicago, protesters also opposed Trump's threat to deploy the National Guard, while in New York, demonstrators called for improved wages and benefits.
Key Facts
- Over 1,000 protests occurred across the U.S. on Labor Day to demand better worker rights and criticize President Trump's policies.
- Demonstrators called for higher wages, better healthcare, fully funded schools, and housing for all.
- The federally mandated minimum wage in the U.S. is $7.25 per hour, which has not increased since 2009.
- Tipped workers earn a "subminimum" wage of $2.13 per hour, set in 1991, which is often insufficient due to wage theft.
- In New York City, the current minimum wage is $16.50 per hour, still below the living wage estimate for basic expenses.
- In Chicago, protests targeted Trump's plans to use the National Guard in the city, fearing increased violence.
- Local leaders and many residents believe the National Guard is not the right solution to address crime in Chicago.
- Crime data shows a decrease in homicide rates in Chicago in recent years, despite ongoing safety concerns.
