Long Island workers’ wages are flatlining while the fortunes of executives are rapidly growing. Help LIJWJ Deliver the Support Workers Need!

Last August, Newsday reported that on Long Island “the median compensation for the 10 top-paid executives rose 37% last year to $10.9 million,” according to a Newsday analysis of Securities and Exchange Commission filings. “By comparison, the median pay for all Long Island workers increased 4.2% to $59,418, just above the 3.8% inflation rate for the metropolitan area last year.” In other words, after accounting for inflation, Long Island workers’ wages are flatlining while the fortunes of executives are rapidly growing.

From Newsday.com

Elected officials do victory laps over numbers that show solid economic growth, and news networks unquestionably parrot their statements. But a closer look at wealth and income distribution tells a different story: much of that growth is concentrated among a small group of already wealthy individuals. Meanwhile, workers are more productive than ever, yet face increasing economic insecurity as austerity measures strip what little social support they have in order to fund tax breaks for their bosses.

It’s almost like there are two entirely different realities depending on who you listen to. LIJWJ unequivocally listens to workers when it comes to economic and societal health. When workers’ are ignored because of their identities, backgrounds, economic circumstances, or simply because they are demanding dignity on the job, we stand with them and reject the fiction of greedy bosses.

We demonstrate this by responding to worker calls to action with seriousness and dedication. Like late last year when Starbucks workers launched a historic nationwide strike campaign. The baristas knew a prolonged strike would be an extremely challenging effort and community mutual aid would be essential to keep it going. Building on years of collaboration, LIJWJ and Starbucks Workers United worked together to establish a network of community and faith supporters to provide food, clothing, and other essentials to workers during the strike.

Pavinder, strike captain at the Garden City cafe, shared this:

“As a pro-union Starbucks worker on Long Island, LIJWJ has been the most supportive organization to me outside of Starbucks Workers United. When we need help on picket lines, LIJWJ is there. When it was clear that workers were being fired for daring to be Black and pro union, LIJWJ and their network made it clear that that is not something Long Islanders will stand for. I really am so grateful for everything they’ve helped us with. I personally feel that I would not have been able to stay with this campaign as long as I have without the love and support LIJWJ.”

We’re 75% towards our goal, which is a great time to make your donation to the 2026 Spring Match! Your contribution helps us respond when workers take courageous action. Whether that means supporting strike efforts, coordinating community mutual aid, or strengthening the relationships that sustain long-term organizing. We’re getting close to our goal, and YOU can help put us over the finish line! Head to our Givebutter page now and become a one time or sustaining LIJWJ supporter!