Issue Position: Unleashing Our Economic Possibilities

Issue Position

Income inequality is rampant across the country, and Malcolm knows that nowhere is that inequality more pronounced than in the city of Philadelphia. The insufficient $7.25 minimum wage has created profound struggle among Philadelphia's low-income population, while further perpetuating the city's 25.7 percent poverty rate. The systemic and generational effects of poverty and a low minimum wage are most apparent in the 181st District. Malcolm believes the necessary fix is the implementation of a living wage for all workers. One of our most important tasks is protecting the right to organize, which is a fundamental American right. The GOP in Harrisburg constantly attacks unions through Right-To-Work legislation, which effectively weakens the power of unions. While some of Philadelphia is growing, neighborhoods like North Philadelphia are being left behind. Malcolm's focus is on the inclusion and empowerment of small business owners through responsible public-private collaboration. This can be done through incentivizing the creation of Business Improvement Districts, which have shown that clean streets help draw customers, public investment, and positive attention in our communities. Significant attention must be given to Philadelphians who are displaced from their homes because of skyrocketing rental rates in gentrifying neighborhoods. This campaign is devoted to promoting sustainable, inclusive neighborhood economic growth, something Philadelphia and Harrisburg must come to grips with.
Beautification, not gentrification
Raising the minimum wage to $15 and build in cost of living increases
Fight for equal pay for women
Creating an easier climate for small businesses
Protecting unions from GOP right-to-work attacks

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