DETROIT, MI – As costs continue to rise for Michigan families and wage changes under Public Act 1 have now taken effect, workers and small business owners are coming together to oppose a law that advocates say shifts an estimated $6 billion a year out of the pockets of Michigan residents and into the hands of multinational CEOs — while reopening an issue voters and the courts already settled. A speakout event this Friday will feature Jane Fonda, a longtime supporter of workers’ rights and living wages, joining Michigan workers and advocates to call for a living wage for all and urge voters to say NO to Public Act 1 in 2026. The event is being supported by the Riley Media Group.
Who:
Jane Fonda, Actor & Activist, longtime advocate for living wages and economic justice
Saru Jayaraman, President, One Fair Wage
Rev. Horace Sheffield, CEO of the Detroit Association of Black Organizations, Bridge Center, Pastor of New Destiny Christian Fellowship church.
When: Friday, January 9, 2026, 3pm EST
Where: Bridge Center, 9928 Grand River Avenue, Detroit
Why: Speakers will underscore that even for people who do not work in restaurants, Public Act 1 has statewide consequences — increasing reliance on public assistance, driving up taxpayer costs, and weakening local economies. The event is organized by One Fair Wage, which has more than 100,000 members in Michigan, including restaurant and service workers, employers, and consumers advocating for fair wages and economic security.
Quotes (for planning purposes):
Saru Jayaraman, President of One Fair Wage: “Public Act 1 is simple: CEOs win, Michigan residents lose billions. At a time when families can’t afford to lose another dollar, this law forces workers and taxpayers to subsidize corporate profits. Michigan voters have been clear before, the courts havebeen clear, and now voters will have the chance again to say NO to a $6 billion CEO giveaway and demand a living wage for all — with tips on top.”
Speakers will also outline the growing momentum behind a 2026 statewide referendum that would suspend and repeal Public Act 1, returning Michigan to the wage framework voters originally approved and the Michigan Supreme Court upheld.
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ABOUT ONE FAIR WAGE
One Fair Wage is a national organization of restaurant and service workers, employers, and consumers advocating for a full, fair minimum wage for all workers, with tips on top. With more than 100,000 members in Michigan, One Fair Wage works across the country to advance policies that raise wages, improve working conditions, and ensure economic security through legislation, ballot initiatives, research, and worker organizing.
About the DABO Detroit
Since 1979, DABO Detroit has worked to improve lives and strengthen communities across the city. With a network of more than 130 partner organizations, DABO provides wraparound services that address health, housing, education, and economic stability.
Through its programs, events, and collaborative efforts, DABO ensures that every Detroiter has access to the resources they need to thrive—now and for generations to come.
From free medical screenings and food distributions to empowerment workshops and cultural programming, DABO Detroit remains a trusted hub for connection, care, and community.
