NAACP PRESIDENT AND CEO, DERRICK JOHNSON, RELEASES STATEMENT ADVOCATING FOR $15 MINIMUM WAGE UPDATE

FEBRUARY 26, 2021 NAACP President and CEO, Derrick Johnson, released the following student regarding the $15 minimum wage increase: After a tumultuous year and a financial downturn, it is evident that raising the minimum wage to $15 is sorely needed to bring about economic justice. The increase would lift wages for nearly one-third of Black workers and contribute to a decrease in inequality. Millions of workers struggle to make ends meet as they work multiple jobs to cover expenses and support their families. It is becoming increasingly difficult to reach the promised American dream when they barely make a living wage. Congress’s failure to act and increase the minimum wage is a disservice to the countless Americans that elected them. Passing legislation to raise the minimum wage will have a resounding effect and receive wide-ranging, bipartisan support. The NAACP will continue to push for progress because it is not enough to survive in this country; we must move people to a place of thriving. ###