Scoop NYC Subversive Coupon!

Check out this latest subversive coupon by Retail Action Project member, Leah Danger, an artist and recovering retail worker.

Leah made this coupon in solidarity with Scoop NYC workers who sued high-end retailer Scoop NYC for over $500,000 in unpaid overtime wages in July 2009. 7 of these workers, all hailing from West Africa, are also suing Scoop NYC for citizenship status discrimination. They were illegally fired when Scoop NYC accused them of being undocumented, in spite of the fact that they all have legal work authorization. The workers found help at the Retail Action Project who helped them file the lawsuit and get media attention in FOX News, NY1 and Crains NY. Support Scoop NYC workers! Don't shop at Scoop NYC!

Get your own Scoop NYC subversive coupon, support the Mannequin Resistance, and see Scoop NYC retail worker video testimonials October 17th 4-7pm! Meet in front of Scoop NYC at 430 West 14th Street NY, NY.

The Great REcession?

"Unemployment jumps to a 26-year high of 9.7%" according to Chris Isidore of CNNMoney.com.  As the recession continues, jobless America continues to expand its population.  Hours and wages are being reduced in many cases as business slows.  Other companies burden their salaried employees with a longer work week as the employees assume the workload of recent lay-offs.   Many people have filed for unemployment and have been living on their savings.  However, those ineligible for unemployment and/or without savings are greatly affected by the economic downturn. 

How has the recession affected you?

10 More Cents

The federal minimum wage rose from $6.55 to $7.25/hr Friday (7/24/09), concluding the three-phase increase. Opponents of the increase worry the mandate will hurt employers already suffering from the recession. However, roughly 1000 business leaders released a "Business For A Fair Minimum Wage" statement arguing, "Higher wages benefit business by increasing consumer purchasing power, reducing costly employee turnover, raising productivity, and improving product quality, consumer satisfaction and company reputation." Still others believe the wage falls short of a living wage, especially in NY where the rate only rose 10 cents. The minimum wage increase also has no impact for tipped workers who still earn as low as $2.13 in eighteen states.

How does the federal minimum wage increase affect you?