Fast-food workers to walk off the job in Philadelphia, other cities

NORTH PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Fast-food workers from Philadelphia and other cities around the country are planning to walk off the job Tuesday.

Some workers gathered around 6:30 a.m. at McDonald's at 31st and Allegheny Avenue in North Philadelphia.

They began chanting to be heard in their fight for $15 an hour and union rights.

There will be 500 protests nationwide today in 270 cities across the county, and 20 cities are in Pennsylvania.

Organizers say it will be the biggest strike in the fast-food industry.

Workers say they want to help shape the discourse leading up to the presidential elections next year, and they are seeking the support of candidates to raise the wages.

Tuesday afternoon, workers will hold a big rally at Philadelphia City Hall.

Fast-food cooks and cashiers will join workers from other industries that typically offer low wages.

Airport, home care, nursing home and maintenance workers are expected to be on hand showing support.

They are calling on more elected officials and employers to get involved in their fight for better wages.