Commentary

SEIU: Census Numbers Underscore Why Movement to Boost Wages Must Succeed


Washington, DC–(ENEWSPF)–September 17, 2013. The U.S. Census today released annual data on income, poverty and health insurance. The data revealed household income fell slightly and is now 8 percent less than it was before the 2007-2009 economic recession. The federal poverty rate remained at 15 percent or 46.5 million living in poverty, and the number of uninsured people slightly declined. Following is a statement by SEIU President Mary Kay Henry, President of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU):

“Census data revealed what we already know. Americans continue to work as hard as ever yet have less and less to show for it. Incomes are down, poverty remains at generational highs, and 48 million lack health insurance, yet corporations and the wealthy continue to chart record profits and income. We cannot build a strong economy equitable economy with only corporations and wealthy shareholders benefiting from greater worker productivity.

“There is something amiss when millions of working people have to choose between paying rent or buying school supplies while news reports say the stock market is soaring. Better wages, secure and affordable healthcare, the chance to reach the middle class is what working women and men dream of – for themselves and for their children, yet it’s getting farther out of reach.

“The Census figures released this morning are yet another sobering reminder of the vast income inequality in our nation. This is why the growing movement of workers (from fast food and retail, to warehouse workers, security officers, child care, home health and adjunct professors) across the country standing up for living wages and holding corporations and employers accountable must succeed. America’s economic well-being depends on it.”

Source: seiu.org

Related Article:

U.S. Census Announces Income, Poverty and Health Insurance Coverage in the United States for 2012

 

 

 


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