If I feed the poor, I’m called a Saint. But if I question why they are poor, I’m called a Communist. ~ Archbishop Helder Camara

I’m trying to understand the argument against paying adults a living wage for their work, while at the same time, objecting to welfare, Link cards and other public assistance programs.  If I work 40 hours and still don’t make enough to pay rent and feed my family, why would I keep working?  Isn’t that the REAL disincentive to working, rather than welfare?

However, I do agree with the welfare naysayers to a point, but for different reasons.  Why SHOULD taxpayers pay for welfare for gainfully employed people, simply because their employers are paying poverty wages?  That means taxpayers are effectively subsidizing the Walmarts and McDonalds of the world.  I object to that. STRENUOUSLY.  The 6 Walmart heirs have more wealth than the bottom 40% of America.  WHY is Walmart paying barely above minimum wage, forcing their employees onto the public assistance rolls?

People should earn a living wage.  And they’re going to get it one way or the other.  Either the employer, who is getting the benefit of their labor will pay them, or taxpayers will pay them in the form of public assistance programs.  Who do you think should pay for working folks labor?  THE EMPLOYERS OF COURSE.

The fight for a living wage in the fast food industry is a noble fight and deserves our support.  I haven’t made minimum wage since I was a teenager, but I feel their pain and I support their struggle for the dignity of earning a living.  #PovertySucks