Fast-food workers protest in New York, Chicago (15 images)

Fast food workers in the Los Angeles area began their first strike today, part of a nationwide attempt to raise the federal.minimum wage to $15 per hour and form a union. Organizers claim fast food workers ``are forced to rely on public assistance just to make ends meet.'' UPI/Jim Ruymen

People hold up signs protesting the low wages for workers at fast food restaurants on August 29, 2013 in New York City. Low-wage workers at businesses like McDonaldÕs and MacyÕs are fighting for a living wage of $15 an hour in pay, which is more than double the current national minimum wage of $7.25. UPI/Dennis Van Tine

People hold up signs protesting the low wages for workers at fast food restaurants on August 29, 2013 in New York City. Low-wage workers at businesses like McDonaldÕs and MacyÕs are fighting for a living wage of $15 an hour in pay, which is more than double the current national minimum wage of $7.25. UPI/Dennis Van Tine

New York City mayoral candidate Bill de Blasio exits after speakin at a protest against the low wages for workers at fast food restaurants on August 29, 2013 in New York City. Low-wage workers at businesses like McDonaldÕs and MacyÕs are fighting for a living wage of $15 an hour in pay, which is more than double the current national minimum wage of $7.25. UPI/John Angelillo