Thousands of Rallies in 50 American States in Support of Workers

The wage suppression policies supported by the Trump administration have created a deep gap between the minimum wage and the real cost of living, to the point where, in some states, such as New York, the minimum wage covers only half of the essential living expenses.

News ID: 86633

Date: 02 September 2025 - 15:21

TEHRAN (Defapress) - On Labor Day, the streets of America witnessed the fury of people fed up with the policies of the "Donald Trump" administration. Tens of thousands,  from the East Coast to the West Coast, gathered in passionate rallies to cry out in defense of workers' rights and challenge policies they believe prioritize the interests of big capitalists over public welfare. Over a thousand rallies across all fifty states, with the meaningful slogan "Workers over Billionaires," sent a clear message: workers have run out of patience with anti-labor policies.

New Yorkers' Anger at the "Fascist" President

In the heart of New York, hundreds gathered in front of Trump Tower, accusing the US President of "fascism" with their chants and demanding his resignation. Amidst the spirited sound of music, workers held placards emphasizing the need for a living wage and universal healthcare. These scenes symbolized the pent-up anger of workers who see Trump's policies as undermining their rights.

Service workers are the backbone of the city, but the National Restaurant Association, as the main opponent, works to suppress the minimum wage so employers aren't forced to pay a full wage for workers' survival.

These policies are rooted in the federal minimum wage set by the government - $7.25 per hour - which hasn't changed since 2009 due to successful lobbying by industry groups. For workers like waitstaff who rely on tips, a very low base wage of $2.13 is set, which has remained unchanged since 1991 and is legally supposed to be supplemented to $7.25. However, activists believe this system often leads to wage theft.

The policy of wage suppression, bolstered by the Trump administration, has created a deep gap between the minimum wage and the actual cost of living. While some states like New York have a minimum wage of $16.50, an adult without children needs $33 per hour to make ends meet. Even in a state like Mississippi, where the cost of living is cheaper and the living wage required is $20.75, the federal wage is unable to cover even one-third of the living costs.

These inequalities direct blame towards Trump's policies, which prioritize the interests of the wealthy over supporting workers. Protesters see this situation as a systematic attack on the dignity of workers, exacerbated by the Trump administration's refusal to raise the federal minimum wage.

Chicago, Displeased with the National Guard's Presence

In downtown Chicago, thousands poured into the streets to protest Trump's threat to deploy the National Guard to the state. This city, under Democratic leadership, has become a target for federal intervention.

The mayor of Chicago, amidst the cheers of protesters waving the city's blue flags, said, "The city will resist the federal assault." Passersby in cafes and restaurants joined the movement with raised fists and honking car horns.

Data shows that the murder rate in the country's third-largest city has significantly decreased in recent years. Although a 2025 study indicates half of residents feel unsafe at night, many protesters describe the city as largely calm.

Trump's interventionist policy, targeting Democrat-controlled cities, is a tool to stifle dissenting voices.

American Workers in Need of Government Attention

These protests, transcending state borders, reflect shared concerns: the heavy pressure of living costs, housing, daily needs, education, and a feeling of lost control over economic and political life. Donald Trump, a wealthy magnate himself, rose to power by riding a wave of economic frustration but formed a cabinet full of billionaires.

These policies, introduced under the guise of improving government efficiency, actually weakened support for workers and strengthened corporate corruption. Protesters see these actions as a sign of the domination of the wealthy class over ordinary people. The uprising on Labor Day is a clear reflection of Trump's policies, which have ignited public anger by prioritizing the interests of the affluent class. From inadequate wages to military interventions, they have not only stalled the economy but also diminished and damaged public trust in the US government. Protesters are unanimously calling for a transformation that places workers at the center of attention.