Anti-Poverty Groups Seek Urgent and Bold Response to U.S. Jobs Crisis

Confirm Tom Perez for U.S. Secretary of Labor

The Leadership Conference is working diligently to see that Tom Perez is confirmed as U.S. Secretary of Labor. Perez is an eminently qualified public servant and consensus builder who has dedicated his career to ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly and have the opportunity to succeed. He has served with integrity and distinction at the local, state and national level, compiling an outstanding record of achievement.

Learn More & Take Action

Anti-Poverty Groups Seek Urgent and Bold Response to U.S. Jobs Crisis

September 6, 2011 - Posted by Avril Lighty

With August 2011 unemployment data showing zero job growth and stagnant unemployment, anti-poverty advocates are pressuring the Obama administration to propose job-creation policies that address the full scope of the jobs crisis.

In anticipation of the president’s jobs speech on September 8, Half in Ten, the campaign to cut poverty in half in 10 years, and its partners recommended job-creation strategies that take historically disenfranchised communities into account. The three key recommendations are:

1. Continuing federal jobless benefits for the long-term unemployed, which not only helps struggling families but also increases demand for local businesses allowing them to keep and hire new workers;

2. Connecting low-income workers with private employers through a subsidized jobs program; and

3. Providing aid to states and localities to help prevent further job losses among teachers, police officers, and local service providers.

“Unless we resolve our job crisis, all of our other national priorities are in real jeopardy,” said Wade Henderson, president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights. “For the working class, communities of color, and people with disabilities, record unemployment levels have caused far too much pain for far too long. But it’s not too late for the Obama administration to commit to a new path forward for our economy. With thoughtful policymaking and execution, we can create opportunities that raise the standard of living for those suffering from the recession and work toward a shared prosperity for all Americans.”