This project explores how North Carolina business owners are making living wages work. Set within independent restaurants, it brings together multiple perspectives to stage a conversation around wages in the food service industry.

Developing an understanding of the multiple costs of low-wage work alongside the benefits of living wages for both workers and business owners has practical relevance for community organizers, policymakers, and other groups working to create community economies that bring greater benefits to all.

I am currently conducting qualitative interviews with restaurant owners, elected officials, and community organizers. If you are an independent restaurant owner or restaurant worker and are interested in participating in an anonymous and confidential interview, please be in touch.