

A Million Reasons to Raise the Minimum Wage
10 snips Jul 22, 2025
The federal minimum wage hasn’t budged since flip phones were cool, sparking debates over proposed hikes to $15 or $17. Discussions reveal how raising wages could actually narrow racial wage gaps. Historical context from the Fair Labor Standards Act sheds light on modern legislation, while misconceptions about job loss and price hikes are countered with evidence of worker empowerment. Additionally, the humor and insights on employee turnover shape a lively commentary about labor dynamics we all should consider.
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Minimum Wage Origins and Motives
- The minimum wage was established in 1938 mainly through the Fair Labor Standards Act, under FDR.
- Its history reveals complex motives, including social control and protection against exploitation.
Catherine Edwards' First Jobs
- Catherine Edwards worked minimum wage jobs as a math tutor and retail inventory clerk during holidays.
- These experiences give real-world insight into low-wage work challenges.
Minimum Wage Job Loss Reality
- Minimum wage increases cause job losses by making prior-wage jobs illegal, but most get replaced with legal contracts.
- Actual employment declines are minor, contrasting with strong theoretical predictions.