The Red and Black

Issue date: 3/3/08 Section: Opinions

LIVING WAGE

Financial status 'ludicrous' excuse for no living wage

I was appalled at the letter entitled, "Raising Living Wage Not Right Solution," published in Friday's edition of The Red & Black.

As a University student worker, I find it extremely difficult to pay my little bills on the check I receive biweekly from my job. I could never imagine attempting to take that check and, without the help of financial aid and my parents, live on my own, having to support others in my household.

I find it ludicrous to state the financial status of the University as reason not to give University workers a living wage.

True, the economy undoubtedly is in a weaker state than in previous years which naturally has affected the University's financial situation. And true, a living wage may not be the absolute best route with the least negative repercussions.

However, if the University has the money to reconstruct a student center that is relatively bare most hours of the day, why can we not find the money to pay the workers who upkeep the facility one more dollar or two?


UBANI UKUKU
Senior, Decatur
Political Science

Fundraising department could solve wage issues

The "living wage" issue is not just an easy reallocation fix. With Dennis' suggested raise structure, these high-paid officials will just go to the private sector where they will be paid more.

Those people likely missed out of at least four years of earning potential by being fortunate enough to get a degree that has allowed them to do more complex work than a typical minimum wage worker.

It also is important to define "living wage." Those who live on the streets or in government housing still earn significantly more and enjoy many more luxuries than the majority of the world's population.

That said, the living wage should be looked at seriously, with a potential solution as the creation of a special fundraising arm of the University specifically purposed to the betterment of the community through higher wages.


ANDY HOMRICH
Junior, Suwanee
Speech Communication

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