California Fast Food Workers Launch New Union

Backed by SEIU, the new union aims to advocate for higher wages and safer conditions through a unique organizing model.

California fast food workers have formed a new union, the California Fast Food Workers Union, with the backing of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), aiming to advocate for higher wages and better working conditions.
The union is unique in that it operates as a minority union, avoiding the need for restaurant-by-restaurant organization, and will advocate through a newly established fast food council rather than traditional collective bargaining.
Critics argue the union's formation could lead to higher consumer prices due to increased operating costs for restaurants, while supporters see it as a significant step towards economic and racial justice for workers.
The union's formation follows years of activism, including the Fight for $15 movement, and aims to address issues such as wage increases, job protections, and predictable work schedules.
Despite challenges in organizing fast food workers due to high turnover and corporate opposition, the union's creation is seen as a potential model for other industries.