Hundreds of protesters calling for a $15 an hour minimum wage marched near the University of Rochester April 15, temporarily shutting down parts of Elmwood and Mount Hope avenues. The Rochester Alliance of Communities Transforming Society, a faith-based organization to which several local Catholic parishes belong, took part in the march, and many Catholics, clergy and women religious were on hand. The march and rally were part of a national effort to help low-wage workers. Hundreds of protests were held across the country the same day.
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Colin O’Malley (bottom), organizing director for Metro Justice, speaks to the crowd of protesters at the University of Rochester before the march.
Jon Garlock sports a “Fight for 15” sign on his hat during the rally.
Charles “Buddy” Granston, a retired union worker, listens to speakers during the opening rally.
Marchers make their way across the University of Rochester campus April 15.
University of Rochester student Diego Moreira (left) and Burger King employee Jayshawn Reese (right) hold signs as they march down Elmwood Avenue.
Many of the people at the front of the April 15 march were local fast-food workers.
McDonald’s employee Alexsandra Candelaria takes a wack at a Ronald McDonald pinata across from the Mount Hope Avenue McDonald’s. Protesters were calling for higher wages for fast-food workers.
Sister of Mercy Janet Korn (center) listens to speakers during the closing rally.
Farm worker Jose Coyote and translator Carly Fox speak during the April 15 rally at the University of Rochester.
Devante Latham holds a sign as he listens to speakers during the closing rally on Mount Hope Avenue.