Op-Ed By Andy Shallal
Washington Post, May 13, 2016
Andy Shallal, who ran for D.C. mayor in 2014, owns the restaurants Busboys and Poets and Mulebone.
Every month, an average of more than 1,000 people move to the District. Small and large businesses are starting and thriving in every corner of our city. Restaurants have been popping up seemingly faster than mushrooms.
This unprecedented growth has not been without its challenges. It is no secret that the District is less affordable than ever and the disparity of wealth is wide. This situation is not sustainable or desirable in a progressive, inclusive city. Progress isn’t progress if it leaves out a large swath of people who, despite hard work, find themselves living in or near poverty.
That is why, as a progressive businessman, I welcome efforts to change the way business is conducted here. The $15-per-hour minimum wage initiative, paid family leave and the One Fair Wage campaign to eliminate tipped wages altogether are long-overdue attempts to close the gap between those at the top and those being left out. These things may seem to be anti-business, but they represent a better and more sustainable way to do business. Such efforts not only will provide a more livable wage to all D.C. workers but also will create a windfall for businesses that will benefit directly from the added money circulating in the community — the proverbial rising tide lifting all boats. ...
Copyright 2016 Andy Shallal