Perceptions about what kind of worker occupies the lowest wage levels tend to be from another, possibly fictional time in the distant past. When we look at the reality today, we see a different story.

"Ontario Needs a Raise - Who Benefits From a $15 Minimum Wage?" A Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives report by senior economist David Macdonald, took a look at who earns minimum wage in Ontario in 2017:

Had a $15 minimum wage been in place for the first six months of 2017, 23% of Ontarians—27% of women, 19% of men—would have received a raise. But understanding how that benefit would be distributed requires a closer look at Ontario’s workforce.

Although nearly all teenagers would see a raise, this represents a small proportion—18%—of the overall group of low-wage workers who would benefit. In fact, 15% of workers getting a raise are over 55.

Put another way, if you’re getting a raise you’re as likely to be a baby boomer as a teenager. While most Ontarians have permanent jobs, although not necessarily full-time, those in non-permanent jobs who are working casual, contract or seasonal work would see a significant gain from a $15 minimum wage. Half of seasonal workers, a third of contract workers, and 57% of casual workers would see their wages rise.