RAISE ILLINOIS ACTIONS

Hello members!

As coalition partners in Raise Illinois, the group that has been organizing for a statewide minimum wage of $10/hour, we are in an important position to continue on the momentum following the midterm elections, where 67% of voters, over 2 million people in all parts of the state, voted to say that we need a higher wage in Illinois.

But our work isn’t over yet: now we need lawmakers in Springfield to hear our voices and pass a bill to #RaiseTheWage!  The good news: they go back for what’s called “veto session” this week, and could take up the minimum wage bill during this session.  We need to keep our grassroots power going strong! We need our lawmakers to hear from us, and we need them to know that we’re demanding action. Not next session. Not next year. We need a higher minimum wage now.

Today there were press conferences around the state urging legislators to get this passed in the coming weeks during the veto session.  And this Thursday, November 20th, hundreds of minimum wage supporters will travel to Springfield for a 10:30 rally and lobby day.  Buses are leaving from several locations in the Chicago area and select cities around the state.  For information on any of these activities, contact Keron Blair (Keron@RaiseIllinoisAction.com) or Ken Snyder (Ken@RaiseIllinoisAction.com).

Even if you can’t go to Springfield Thursday, sign on to this petition to show your support for the raised minimum wage and urge legislators to vote for a higher minimum wage now.  And, for added effect, share it on Facebook and Twitter so your friends can sign on too. Together, we’ll push our lawmakers to pass this bill and provide dignity and decency to millions of working people in our state.

Not sure what to say? Here are some ideas for social posts to raise awareness on your Facebook and Twitter:

“Add your name and tell our legislators to #RaiseTheWage in veto session! http://petitions.moveon.org/sign/illinois-general-assembly-1”

“Working families can’t wait. The General Assembly convenes next week. Tell them to #RaiseTheWage now! http://petitions.moveon.org/sign/illinois-general-assembly-1”

“Sign the petition: IL General Assembly, #RaiseTheWage right now! Working people can’t afford to wait any longer! http://petitions.moveon.org/sign/illinois-general-assembly-1”

Let me know if you have questions or want to get involved.

In solidarity,

Jes Cook, GEO Outreach Chair