Workers' Wages: Why California Needs a Minimum Wage Boost

California is expensive, and making ends meet as a low-wage worker is tough. Victor Moreno, an advocate at The Street Level Health Project, has seen firsthand how hard it is. He's worked in the food industry for years and knows the struggles of his coworkers. They can't afford the basics with their current pay. Proposition 32 aims to change that by raising the minimum wage to $18 by 2025. This increase isn't just about money; it's about dignity and the ability to live a decent life. Moreno understands the fear of speaking up, but he believes California's workers deserve more. Long hours and intense work are common in the food industry. Many workers take multiple shifts just to cover rent. Language barriers and a lack of understanding about how to navigate systems make it hard for some to advocate for better pay. Day laborers have it even harder. They wait daily for work, often choosing between low wages and no wages at all. They're afraid to speak up because they don't want to lose what little they have. Proposition 32 would give workers a few extra dollars to cover the basics like healthy food and internet access. It might even allow them to take a real vacation. Critics worry that businesses will cut hours or fire workers if the minimum wage increases. But Moreno's experience shows that workers are vital, and businesses need them. Moreno hopes that Californians will vote for Proposition 32 to help workers like him. It's not just about surviving; it's about thriving and creating a sustainable California for everyone.