This was originally posted to the Adams Morgan Listserv on June 19, 2018, as message #48663, groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/AdamsMorgan/conversations/messages/48663
I have to thank Ed Lazere for his courage in addressing this issue. In doing so forcing me to move this from the back burner of my political conscience to seeing this is an issue of fundamental fairness and equity. As well, in the Ward to Sheika Reid and Lori Parker who in an early debate chose not to pander to the crowd, push me to take this issue seriously and thoughtfully. Pushing to ensure fairness and equity is not always popular.
As some one who pushes for fairness and equity in housing, economic and small business development and access to public space, there was no way I could do anything but vote “Yes” on 77 when it comes to achieving wage fairness and equity in the restaurant/bar industry. Fair and equitable wages and affordable housing go hand in hand. It’s very hard with straight face to say you stand for one and not the other.
Our city has chosen a public policy path of raising the minimum wage as a way ensuring a living-wage and better working conditions for workers in our city. We should be consistent with this policy, the restaurant industry should not be an exception in this policy. Given that a majority of political class are afraid to implement fair and consistent policies, we as citizens must force the issue and vote “yes”.
There is no doubt, that over the years the Mayor and Council have through disjointed nanny state policies, unfair tax abatements, regulatory overreach and etc. created a difficult and often unfair business environment. This must be addressed, but not at the expense and on the backs of just and equitable wages for workers in the restaurant/bar industry. Maybe the industry will use its new found clout to help “us” push for healthy policies when it come to business development instead of seeking privilege and exception. Again, voting “Yes” will help push us in the direction of more sound and balanced policies.
There is a Bill before Council, Bill 22-508 – Office of and Commission on Nightlife and Culture Establishment Act of 2018 <app.cfo.dc.gov/services/fiscal_impact/pdf/spring09/FIS%20B22-508%20Office%20of%20and%20Commission%20on%20Nightlife.pdf>, designed to address the impact and policies pertaining to the growth of restaurant/bars in our neighborhoods and their importance to the city’s economy. The city is now looking to this industry as an engine to help address unemployment, income growth, the elimination of poverty, support neighborhood amenities, a key element of community and economic development policy. So the industry wants to be with the big boys and girls, so they have grow up and be truly responsible.
Voting “Yes” on 77 not only begins to bring fairness and equity in wages, but forces us on creating in DC a balanced, equitable and fair business environment. This is and must only be a first step
William