On a beautiful Saturday on Carson Beach, approximately 1,000 community members gathered to celebrate the launch of the low wage worker movement in Massachusetts earlier this summer. Hundreds signed up to join the Fight for $15 cause and join in a week of action for low wage workers, beginning August 27th.

Families turned out in big numbers to enjoy free BBQ, raffles, kids’ games, dance contests, and other free family fun between Noon and 6:00 p.m. Free workshops were also held focusing on family budgeting, eating healthy on a budget, stress reduction, and yoga.

Ineyda.JPGAt 2:30, workers from across industries – including fast food, transportation, homecare and more – talked about why they’re joining the Fight for $15 movement and the struggles they face living on low wages.

“I have worked in homecare for 14 years. I am in the same situation as many low wage workers. I have terrible wages, no sick days, or vacations” said Medical Resources caregiver Eneyda Perez (right in photo) during the program. “As a single mother, I’m part of the movement of homecare workers who are joining the Fight for $15.”

“I can’t live off eight dollars an hour and I only make a certain amount of money. I’ve still got bills to pay, and I’ve still got to make a living for my family. It’s hard out here for everyone who struggles. We’re fighting for 15 not only for ourselves but for our communities and other workers cannot speak up for themselves,” explained Darius Cephas, a McDonald’s worker.

The #WageAction coalition, 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, Jobs with Justice, MassUniting, the NAACP, and other progressive organizations hosted the free community fair.

Candidate for Governor Martha Coakley, Candidate for Attorney General Warren Tolman, Boston City Councilor Tito Jackson, Candidate for Treasurer Deb Goldberg, Candidate for Register of Probate & Family Court Felix D. Arroyo, Candidate for State Representative Eric Esteves, Representative Dan Cullinane, Representative Gloria Fox, Representative Evandro C. Carvalho, and candidates for Lieutenant Governor Steve Kerrigan and Mike Lake were amongst those who stopped by the Community Fair.

On the heels of the national fast-food strikes, workers winning a $15 minimum wage in Seattle, and the #WageAction event held in Boston on June 12, advocates are planning a Week of #WageAction around Labor