[endswapper]

I don't think the 7 years looks bad. There are all sorts of reasons, you're a team player, you trusted management, you liked your team, you were doing satisfying work...And on and on. It's up to you to present and defend any criticism, but I think you have more than enough ammunition.

I know you weren't trying to impress anyone, but if it were enough, it might justify holding on longer. I think you have been more than patient.

I would abandon any hope that the company has your interests in mind. I don't know the company or its circumstances, but if they are breaking promises and not paying you they clearly don't have them in mind.

Getting that other job is about the only leverage you have. Maybe it's the smack in the head they need, and they pay you the back pay, give you the raise, etc. However, I doubt it.