Minimum Wage Is On The Rise #BlackStability

With minimum wage going up, will these increases move Californians towards financial stability?

As of January 1, 2024, California’s minimum wage has increased from $15.50 per hour to $16 per hour. In addition, the minimum wage for fast food employees who qualify is $20 per hour, and this change was effective on April 1, 2024. Health care industry employees who qualify will see an added increase to their minimum wage beginning on June 1, 2024.

It’s about time!

As these increases signify some progress, it’s vital to mention that there is an ongoing struggle for economic equality for the Black Worker. In the face of rising living costs such as housing, gas, food and many daily essentials, making ends meet can be a struggle. So many Black Workers are working two to three jobs just to maintain themselves and a roof over their heads, which leads to sacrificing time with loved ones to ensure financial stability. While other Black Workers are facing economic and personal hardships that prevent them from providing for themselves and families.

Some positive impacts of minimum wage increasing in California are increased job satisfaction among Black Workers, workers being better equipped to manage their day-to-day expenses, and workers opting to work less overtime to spend time with their families. In addition, rising wages may also encourage some Black Workers to invest or purchase a home, possibly even land, thereby contributing to wealth accumulation and economic stability.

Although increases in wages have many good aspects, there are concerns that rapid increases to wages may result in job loss or reduction in hours specifically for workers in industries with narrow profit margins. Black Workers, who already face systemic barriers in the labor market, may be disproportionately affected by these dynamics. To mitigate any possible negative impacts of wage increases, it is crucial that Black Workers have more access and awareness of job training resources and trade skills to foster economic empowerment. One avenue to explore would be Nonprofit Organizations, such as ours, who promote and support workforce development.

Here at the Inland Empire Black Worker Center (IEBWC) we aim to create a community where Black Workers have access to sustainable employment and opportunities for economic growth. One of our goals is to empower Black Workers to lead prosperous lives and shape their own destinies. We recently hosted a 4-part Virtual Professional Development Series which provided access to workshops and job readiness training. As the culmination of our virtual training series, we hosted a Professional Development Summit that included free headshots and access to local companies who had job openings. These are just a few examples of our dedication to the economic well-being of the Black Worker.

While the changes in minimum wage are a step in the right direction toward economic stability for the Black Workers and all workers in our community, let’s continually seize opportunities for growth and advancement. Whether it be through financial literacy, education, or vocational training, IEBWC is here to partner with the community to develop solutions together. 

To sign up to be notified about future IEBWC events please visit: https://www.iebwc.org/contact-us

For details and updates about minimum wage in California please visit https://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/minimum_wage.htm to stay informed.