Over the past few decades, there has been a growing trend toward temporary, part-time, and contingent work and an increase in low-wage, low-quality jobs. With the exit of major industries and the growth of multi-national corporations, the solid middle-class jobs that offered salaries and benefits are disappearing. Now, nearly one-third of the Chicago region's workforce are trapped in dead-end jobs
. Together, we must raise the floor for workers who perform cleaning, manufacturing, day labor, restaurant, warehouse, domestic work, temp work, and other labor essential for the functioning of our society. A united voice, Raise the Floor Alliance was founded by Chicago area worker centers who build power with low-wage, non-unionized, Black and Brown communities across the region. The mission of Raise the Floor Alliance (RTF) is to ensure that low-wage workers have access to quality jobs and are empowered to uphold and improve workplace standards. Both an alliance and a support center, RTF brings area worker centers together into a collective voice for economic policies that foster dignified, family-supporting work. RTF members include:
Arise Chicago
Chicago Workers Collaborative
Centro de Trabajadores Unidos
Chicago Community & Workers' Rights
Latino Union of Chicago
Warehouse Workers for Justice
Workers Center for Racial Justice
