After more than two years of bargaining for a union contract, workers at the country’s first unionized Chipotle restaurant are calling for a nationwide boycott unless they can get an agreement.

Immigrants from El Salvador clustered in major cities often work demanding, low-paying jobs that are hard to fill — like janitors.

The Teamsters called the tentative agreement “historic” and “overwhelmingly lucrative.” It includes, among other benefits, higher wages and air conditioning in delivery trucks.

Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show the number of workers who went on strike increased almost 50% last year, compared to 2021.

They want the residuals and better working conditions other guilds have obtained for members.

Legalized segregation was an economic system that determined people’s livelihoods, says history professor Robin D.G. Kelley.

Many young workers have witnessed the effects of economic crises and are struggling with the gap between their wages and the cost of living.

During a wave of industrial unrest, triggered by the cost of living crisis, striking workers voice their discontent from the picket line.

The National Labor Relations Board’s resources have been stretched thin at a time when union organizing is surging.

“What gives me hope is something that seemed impossible in 2012 is now very possible,” Henry told Marketplace.