Fight For $15 Protest Held Outside New McDonald's HQ In West Loop

CHICAGO, IL — Protesters crowded outside Chicago's new McDonald's headquarters in the West Loop Monday morning calling for a higher minimum wage. The "Fight for $15" marchers chanted outside the new building at 1035 W. Randolph Street. Protesters held up a large banner with a letter to McDonald's asking for the corporation to "use its massive power and wealth to lift up people of color."

"McDonald's spends tens of millions of dollars to influence elected officials at every level of government," the letter read. "It ranks as one of the largest opponents of even the most basic efforts to improve wages and working conditions across the country."

The Fight for $15 protests have been taking place in Chicago for years, but on Monday the marchers chose the sidewalks outside the new McDonald's headquarters and restaurant.

"McDonald's McDonald's you can't hide! We can see your greedy side!" protesters chanted as they crowded outside the newly-renovated entrance.

Terri Hickey, spokesperson for McDonald’s Corp., said the company is dedicated to helping its employees succeed through training and education programs so that they can "pursue their education and career ambitions."

"Recently we announced we are tripling tuition assistance for restaurant employees by allocating $150 million over five years to our Archways to Opportunity education program which provides eligible U.S. employees an opportunity receive upfront college tuition assistance, earn a high school diploma, and access free education advising services and learn English as a second language."

Hickey said McDonald's lowered eligibility requirements and made the program more accessible.

The marchers planned to leave for Springfield late Monday, where another protest was planned.

Top image courtesy of Fight For 15.