It's a big step for me to take, but I've learned that the only way things will change is if I speak out. Even though I've worked at Burger King for two years, I've spent my whole life in the food industry. First there was Luby's Cafeteria, followed by a 10-year run at Popeye's. Then it was McDonald's, and now Burger King. But in many ways, they've all been the same minimum wage job.

The truth is, I love to cook—that's why I've stayed in fast-food for so long. I don't mind standing behind the grill all day. I'm proud of my work, and I do my job well.

What I do mind is that at the end of the day, my paycheck is so small I have to run a side-business cooking food for neighbors or other acquaintances. I mind that when my daughter asks me if I can chip in for baby formula this month for my grandchild, I have to say I don't have the cash. I mind that the thought of owning a car is so out of reach, it's practically a fantasy.