Co-authored with Emmanuel Saez, professor of economics Coronavirus threatens the world’s economic life, and current proposals from governments around the globe are failing to match the scale of the crisis. Today, the chancellor, Rishi Sunak, [UK Chancellor of the Exchequer] announced £330 billion of loans and that some companies would not have to pay business … Continue reading »
labor
Remembering the Filipino American origins of the Delano grape strike
Sept. 8, 2015 marks the 50th anniversary of the beginning of the Delano Grape Strike. The historical significance of the five-year strike was and is profound. It catalyzed the modern farmworkers’ movement for fair wages, the right to organize, and the recognition of the dignity of their labor. The strike involved both Filipino and Mexican … Continue reading »
Battle in Seattle: Boeing’s demands bad for U.S. economy
At the heart of the recent hard-ball negotiations between Boeing and the International Association of Machinists (IAM) is a troubling paradox: A company scores record profits and demands tough concessions from its workers. Something is clearly wrong with this picture. While earning more and paying less may fatten the bottom line next quarter, it dampens … Continue reading »
The unfinished march toward a decent minimum wage
It was fifty years ago the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom took place. The demand for a higher minimum wage was part of a package of demands seeking economic justice for workers through government intervention in the labor market. At that time, the wage floor was $1.15 and marchers were demanding a raise … Continue reading »
Jobs outlook not pretty this Labor Day
Next week President Obama will unveil his jobs plan and today’s employment report won’t make it easier for him as job growth was zilch in August. The post-Labor Day speech will introduce his strategy to promote economic growth and create jobs. The White House has been tight lipped about the details but it is expected … Continue reading »