Waffle House employees are striking for better wages.

TheGrio reports employees also want the following:

• Stop taking mandatory meal deductions
• Close during extreme weather conditions
• 24-hour security for all restaurants

Per the report, the Union of Southern Service Workers said in a petition that employees are getting organized and demanding $25 an hour in response to their refusal to be exploited.

“We’re launching a powerful set of demands on Waffle House,” the petition states, “to take back what is rightfully ours: A workplace based on respect, dignity and fair pay for everyone.”

According to WSB-TV, Waffle House employee Gerald Green has worked at the food chain for about seven years. He said he doesn’t feel his hourly pay reflects that.

“Well, I am a rockstar, so at my restaurant, I am making $17.75,” Green said. “That is why employees are demanding better pay. You’re constantly having to go from one job to the next.”

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.