Why Should You Join Us In Our Fight?

We are a student group advocating for fair pay and real opportunity for young people in Washington, DC.

We are not a government organization, political office, or professional advocacy firm. We are students—working, studying, and planning our futures—who believe that our labor deserves respect and fair compensation.

For decades, programs like the Summer Youth Employment Program have helped students gain experience and build skills. But today, many youth are paid far below the city’s minimum wage, even as the cost of living, transportation, and education continues to rise.

We came together because this affects us directly.

Our goal is simple:

• Fair pay for youth doing real work

• Stronger opportunities for students to succeed

• A more equitable future for DC

DC Students Matter exists to amplify student voices, share accurate information, and encourage civic engagement. We believe change happens when the people most impacted speak up—and are heard.

This movement is about students standing up for ourselves and for the next generation.