Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
AFGE workers visited Capitol Hill to demand Congress fix the problems festering inside the Social Security Administration (SSA). Reps. Maxwell Frost (Fla.) and Matt Cartwright (Pa.), Social Security Works, and the Center for American Progress joined AFGE leaders for a national day of action. SSA is facing a growing crisis based on staffing attrition that leaves many people in America helpless and without lifesaving resources. SSA workers are facing overwhelming caseloads with little to no support.
“It’s well past time that members of the House and Senate recognize the disrespect of SSA employees that has hung vulnerable Americans out to dry,” said AFGE National President Everett Kelley. “We’re ready to talk to our nation’s leaders about what actually needs to get done in this Agency to see real results.”
AFGE leaders are meeting with members of Congress to discuss necessary changes.
“What we’re seeing now is unacceptable. We deserve better. The American people deserve better,” said Jessica LaPointe, president of AFGE Council 220. “That’s why we’re demanding action from our lawmakers in Washington. Individuals shouldn’t have to die while waiting for determinations on their benefits. Supporting Social Security workers means supporting our American values. Stand with federal employees in advocating for their well-being and every individual who relies on SSA to live."