'Fight for 15' protesters rally for higher wages on Labor Day
CHICAGO (WLS) -- Hundreds of people got up early on Labor Day to rally for better wages.
People with the "Fight for 15" campaign started their annual Labor Day rally near 18th Street and Ashland Avenue in Pilsen Monday morning.
Attendees said they were protesting Governor Bruce Rauner's recent veto of a bill to raise Illinois' minimum wage to $15.
The protesters said they are targeting McDonald's as well as the American Hospital Association. McDonald's said in a statement that it has raised pay and started offering paid time off at company-owned restaurants.
"We offer McDonald's employees the opportunity to develop the valuable skills and work ethic necessary to build successful careers even beyond our restaurants," McDonald's statement said.
In a statement, the American Hospital Association voiced its support of hospital workers.
"A hospital's workforce is its most vital asset," the statement said. "That's why America's hospitals and health systems value the important work and contributions of the five million men and women who care for patients every day."
Attendees at the rally included Rev. Jesse Jackson, former Gov. Pat Quinn, child care and health care workers, city employees, teachers, and the SEIU president.
Protesters planed to disrupt traffic at the intersection before marching to the American Hospital Association in the Loop later Monday morning.
