In light of Houston's booming tourism sector, with 54 million visitors last year, hospitality workers are demanding a $23 minimum wage to ensure a livable income. With inflation affecting food, housing, and transportation costs significantly, the union Unite Here Local 23 argues that many workers, earning below $16.50 an hour, are struggling financially. City councilmembers support this initiative, emphasizing the need to maintain Houston's appeal as a tourist destination by ensuring fair wages for its workers.
"If we want Houston to remain a top destination for visitors and events, we need to make sure workers are making enough to thrive," Martinez said in a statement to Eater.
Caraballo says many workers have reported making less than $16.50 an hour, living paycheck to paycheck, while others say they are often doing the work of two to three people at their jobs.
The initiative comes as workers report an increased cost of living and workloads that have steadily grown since the pandemic.
Houston First, the city's tourism arm, reported that 54 million people visited the city last year, resulting in a 16 percent increase in hotel revenue and an 8 percent increase in occupancy.
Collection
[
|
...
]