McDonald's workers are holding massive protests over the chain's 'publicity stunt' pay raise

McDonald's workers across the US are holding protests Thursday in retaliation against the fast-food chain's decision to raise wages for only a fraction of its employees.

McDonald's announced Wednesday that it would be raising hourly pay by more than $1 for the 10% of its employees who work at company-owned stores.

Protestors say the pay raise is a "publicity stunt" because it doesn't apply to employees of franchised stores.

They are demanding an increase for all employees to at least $15 an hour. The average hourly wage for McDonald's workers is currently $9.01, according to the company.

McDonald's argues that the change still affects 90,000 workers.

Workers are protesting in two dozen cities Thursday, according to the Fight for $15 movement, a coalition of fast-food workers who have been fighting for hourly wages of at least $15.

Cities where protests are planned include Atlanta, Boston, Denver, New York City, and Pittsburgh.