By Elizabeth Miller
Workers in Cleveland took over the City Hall steps Tuesday as part of a nationwide rally for a higher minimum wage. Former State Senator Nina Turner and City Councilwoman Phyllis Cleveland were among those who spoke at the event, advocating for 15 dollars and a union.
Supporters of raising the minimum wage cheered through the rain at Cleveland’s city hall Tuesday. Speakers at the event urged supporters to vote only for candidates that support the “Fight for 15” initiative, calling it a “moral imperative” to raise the minimum wage. During the event, home care worker Artheta Peters talked about the responsibilities of her minimum wage job. "I’m here to ensure that my elders eat properly so they’re not going into diabetic comas inside their homes," said Peters.
"This Is what I do. Does it deserve more? Yes it does.”
Cleveland’s rally was one of many throughout the state, including ones in Lorain, Youngstown, and Columbus. Opponents say raising the minimum wage leads to fewer jobs. Ohio’s minimum wage is $8.10 an hour, 85 cents higher than the federal rate.